Dehradun, July 14, 2026: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Tuesday flagged off a special train to Veraval (Somnath) from Harrawala Railway Station, Dehradun, on the occasion of the Somnath Swabhiman Festival. He extended his best wishes to the pilgrims and described the journey not just as a religious trip, but as a powerful way to connect with national pride, cultural consciousness, and Sanatan traditions.
Dhami said he was pleased that nearly 700 devotees from across different sections of society are taking part in the six-day special journey. The group includes women associated with self-help groups, beneficiaries of various welfare schemes, saints, and representatives from different sections of society.
He said the journey offers an opportunity to connect with India’s thousands of years old Sanatan traditions, glorious heritage, and sense of national pride. Referring to the Somnath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, he said it symbolizes India’s unwavering faith, indomitable belief, and resilience. He added that despite repeated attacks and destruction, Somnath has continued to send the message that India rises stronger after every challenge.
The chief minister said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the country is witnessing an unprecedented cultural renaissance. He added that inspired by the Prime Minister, the Uttarakhand government is also working continuously to establish Devbhoomi Uttarakhand as the spiritual capital of the world.
Dhami said the state government is fully committed to protecting the cultural values and original identity of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand. He noted that the state has implemented an anti-conversion law and an anti-riot law for this purpose. He also said that more than 13,000 acres of government land have been freed from encroachment through ongoing drives.
He further said that Uttarakhand has implemented the Uniform Civil Code to ensure equal law and equal justice for all citizens. He added that the Madrasa Board has been replaced with the Uttarakhand State Minority Education Authority.
The chief minister urged all pilgrims to represent Uttarakhand’s culture, values, and spirit of Atithi Devo Bhava wherever they travel. He said they are not only going to offer prayers at Somnath, but are also carrying Uttarakhand’s spiritual consciousness, rich traditions, and cultural values.
The event was attended by MLA Brij Bhushan Gairola, Dehradun Mayor Saurabh Thapliyal, other public representatives, and a large number of local residents.
