Gangotri Dham Closed for Winter Today on Annakut Festival; Idol of Goddess Ganga Moved to Mukhba

In News: Gangotri Dham Closes for Winter on Annakut Festival; Goddess Ganga’s Idol Taken to Mukhba Village

Analysis:

1. Context:
   • In Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, the Gangotri Dham — one of the four revered Char Dham shrines — was ceremonially closed for the winter season on the occasion of the Annakut festival.
   • The ritual marks the end of the annual pilgrimage season, observed with great devotion and cultural significance.
2. Ceremonial Details:
   • The temple was decorated with flowers, and a large number of devotees gathered for the closing ceremony.
   • The idol of Goddess Ganga was placed in a decorated palanquin (palki) and began its journey to Mukhba village, her designated winter abode.
   • The procession was accompanied by a military band and traditional musical instruments, symbolizing reverence and festivity.
3. Journey and Ritual Process:
   • The palanquin will halt at the Markandeya temple overnight.
   • The next day, the idol will be enshrined at the Ganga temple in Mukhba, where devotees can offer prayers during the entire winter period.
4. Pilgrimage Season Overview:
   • Over 14 lakh pilgrims visited Gangotri and Yamunotri Dham during this year’s pilgrimage season, reflecting the continued spiritual attraction of the Char Dham Yatra.
   • The Yamunotri and Kedarnath Dham are also scheduled to close tomorrow on the occasion of Bhaiya Dooj.
5. Cultural and Religious Significance:
   • The ritual of moving the deity to a winter abode ensures year-round worship despite harsh Himalayan conditions.
   • The practice reinforces the living tradition of devotional continuity and the deep-rooted faith of the Himalayan pilgrimage culture.

Static Information:

• Gangotri Dham:
  • Dedicated to Goddess Ganga, located on the banks of the Bhagirathi River in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand.
  • Situated at an altitude of around 3,100 metres, it is one of the Char Dham and Chhota Char Dham pilgrimage sites.
  • Traditionally opens on Akshaya Tritiya (April/May) and closes on Annakut or Govardhan Puja (a day after Diwali).
• Mukhba Village:
  • The winter home of Goddess Ganga, located near Harsil in Uttarkashi district.
  • The local community plays a key role in preserving the ritual traditions and cultural heritage associated with the Dham.
    
    Updated -  October 22, 2025 3:13 PM | News On Air