Why is the Kedarnath Temple Closed and the Rituals Involved
The grandeur and sanctity of the Kedarnath Temple, nestled in the Himalayas, have drawn pilgrims from across the world for centuries. However, every year, this revered shrine remains closed for a period of six months, typically from November to March. This closure is not arbitrary but rather a well-structured part of the temple's tradition and rituals. In this article, we explore why the Kedarnath Temple is closed, the reasons behind this practice, and the rituals involved in preparing the temple for its period of seclusion.
The Historical Significance
The Kedarnath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. According to legend, the temple was built by the Pandavas, heroes from the ancient Indian epic, Mahabharata. This temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the most sacred sites for Shaivites, and plays a crucial role in Hindu pilgrimage.
Rationale Behind the Closure
The Kedarnath Temple is situated at an elevation of 3,583 meters (11,753 feet) in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, India. During the winter months, the area experiences severe cold and icy conditions. The temple's location, often shrouded in clouds, temperatures dropping well below freezing, and frequent snowfall make it challenging to maintain the structure and perform regular rituals safely.
Due to these harsh climatic conditions, the temple remains closed from November to March. This period aligns with the six-month closure that other important shrines in the region, such as Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri, also observe, following a long tradition established by the revered priests.
Preparation for the Closure
Even before the winter sets in, the temple undergoes a rigorous preparation process. The rituals and preparations are overseen by the temple priests who maintain the sanctity and traditions of the shrine.
1. Removal of Religious Symbols
Before the doors of the temple are sealed, the priests carefully remove all the religious symbols and sacred articles from the temple premises. This includes the Vigilance, that is, the protective deity or guardian, and other items that are integral to daily worship. The removal of these items is performed with great reverence and adherence to ancient rituals.
2. Cleaning the Temple Complex
The temple complex is thoroughly cleaned to ensure that it is free from any debris or contamination that might accumulate during the winter months. This cleaning process is meticulous and involves both physical cleaning and the use of traditional methods to purify the sacred space.
3. Lowering of the Lingam
One of the most significant rituals is the lowering of the Lingam, which is the revered Shiva Linga itself. This symbolic act signifies the withdrawal of the divine presence from the physical form. The Lingam is ceremoniously returned to a chamber within the temple under the direction of the priests.
4. Lighting the Sacred Lamp
In preparation for the winter, the sacred lamp within the temple is lit. This is a symbolic act of ensuring the presence of light and protection during the period of darkness and harsh weather. The priests perform this ritual with utmost devotion to maintain the continuity of the temple's spiritual practice.
Reopening of the Temple
When the weather warms up in the months of April and May, the temple is prepared for reopening. This process involves the reverse of the rituals described above. The Lingam is brought out, religious symbols are restored, and the temple grounds are cleansed.
The re-opening of the Kedarnath Temple is a joyous affair attended by pilgrims and devotees who celebrate the return of the divine presence. This event is tinged with a sense of relief and renewal, marking the start of the pilgrimage season.
Conclusion
The closure of the Kedarnath Temple is more than just a seasonal maintenance routine. It is a deeply symbolic act that acknowledges the changing seasons and the divinity's withdrawal and return in accordance with nature's rhythms. This practice is central to the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the area and holds significant importance for Hindus across the world.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why is the Kedarnath Temple closed for a long period?
The temple is closed due to the extreme cold and harsh weather conditions, ensuring the safety and preservation of the sacred site during the winter.
2. How long does the Kedarnath Temple remain closed?
The temple is typically closed from November to March, for a period of six months, following a long-standing tradition.
3. Are there any religious rituals performed during the closure?
The temple priests perform various rituals to prepare the temple for its period of seclusion, including the removal of deities, cleaning of the temple complex, and lowering of the Lingam.