Chairman Hemant Dwivedi cited actress Sara Ali Khan as an example, recalling her bond with Kedarnath forged during her 2018 debut film shoot. ‘If Sara affirms her faith in writing, she’ll be welcome,’ he stated, signaling that genuine belief trumps mere tourism.

Bollywood star and BJP parliamentarian Kangana Ranaut backed the rule during a Parliament chat with IANS. ‘There’s no issue with Sara declaring her Sanatan faith formally,’ she said. Defining Sanatan as ‘that which has no origin or end,’ Kangana asserted its supremacy over newer faiths. ‘Everyone here is inherently Sanatani by birth and tradition.’

She dismissed any discomfort with the affidavit process, urging Sara to proceed confidently. Kangana then turned fire on Rahul Gandhi, decrying his ‘tuc-tadak’ parliamentary style and use of offensive words in interviews as highly inappropriate.

As pilgrims flock to these eternal shrines, the new protocol reignites discussions on protecting spiritual heritage while navigating modern India’s diverse populace.

Dwivedi didn’t mince words: ‘Such behavior disrespects our faith. Pilgrims suffer congestion caused by these intrusions.’ He noted similar problems nationwide, prompting high-level government consultations. A comprehensive action plan is ready for rollout, targeting disruptions at holy sites.

Shifting to logistics, Dwivedi detailed the yatra’s timeline. Badrinath kapats unlock on April 23 morning. Kedarnath awaits Maha Shivratri proclamation. Yamunotri and Gangotri commence on Akshaya Tritiya. Preparatory meetings have ironed out every detail, involving multiple agencies for flawless execution.

‘We’re committed to hassle-free darshan,’ Dwivedi affirmed. Demands for enhanced central security forces underscore safety commitments. With all stakeholders aligned, the 2024 yatra promises devotion without distractions, restoring the pilgrimage’s pious essence.