Controversy Sparks Over Delhi Kedarnath Temple: Shankaracharya Opposes

Shankaracharya of Jyotirmath, Swami Avimukteshwaranand, has voiced strong opposition to the proposed construction of a Kedarnath Temple in Delhi, citing both cultural and economic concerns. He also raised issues concerning a gold misappropriation scandal connected to the original Kedarnath Dham in Uttarakhand.

The Shankaracharya of Jyotirmath, Swami Avimukteshwaranand, has openly condemned the construction of a Kedarnath Temple in Delhi, arguing it undermines cultural authenticity and traditional religious practices. Speaking to reporters, he stressed that the temple is a center for meditation and not economic activities.

'How did we know that Kashi Vishwanath is in Varanasi? Because it is mentioned in the Shastras. Similarly, it is mentioned in Shastras that Kedar will be in the Himalayas,' Swami Avimukteshwaranand stated. He criticized the usage of terms like 'Kedarnath Shifting' by the Kedarnath Trust in Delhi and questioned the involvement of Uttarakhand's CM in the 'Bhumi-Pujan' event.

Raising concerns about a gold scam at the original Kedarnath Dham, the Shankaracharya alleged misappropriation of gold amounts from 320 kg to 27 kg, demanding a thorough investigation. He condemned the idea of building a symbolic Kedarnath in Delhi, asserting that such a move could lead to further scandals.