CM Dhami Attends Launch of ‘Divya Jagar’ on Goddess Surkanda; Reaffirms Commitment to Merit-Based Governance and Cultural Heritage

Dehradun : Chief Minister Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami participated in the unveiling ceremony of Bhagwati Surkanda Maa Divya Jagar organized by the Himalayan Heritage Society at IRDT Auditorium, Dehradun.

Addressing the gathering, CM Dhami emphasized the transparency and credibility of recruitment into government services, calling upon the youth of Uttarakhand to prepare confidently for public service exams. “In our state, government jobs are now based solely on merit, talent, and qualifications,” he asserted, encouraging aspirants to stay dedicated.

He mentioned that over 60 impersonators have been arrested under ‘Operation Kaalnemi,’ highlighting the state government’s determination to preserve the sanctity of Devbhoomi (Land of the Gods). This operation will continue intensively during the holy month of Sawan and the Char Dham Yatra. The Chief Minister reiterated his firm stance on protecting Uttarakhand’s identity and said that strict actions will continue against land jihad, love jihad, and spit jihad.

The Chief Minister said his government has implemented a strong land law to curb unnecessary land banking. Speaking at the Divya Jagar event, he launched the devotional performance composed by Padma Shri folk singer Shri Preetam Bhartwan on Surkanda Devi. CM Dhami praised the jagar tradition as a sacred medium through which ancestors communicated with nature, mountains, rivers, and divine forces.

“This tradition is as profound as the Vedic chants. Jagars are not merely sung—they are spiritually experienced. Every word, rhythm, and beat of the dhol holds divine power, invoking celestial presence,” the CM said, urging everyone to support such cultural initiatives.

Highlighting the government’s ongoing cultural efforts, CM Dhami praised Shri Preetam Bhartwan’s initiative as exemplary, noting that the portrayal of the glory of Surkanda Devi through music and film would inspire the youth to stay connected to their roots.

He emphasized that Surkanda Devi Temple, one of the 52 Shakti Peethas, has been a center of devotion for centuries, where local ballads and jagars have been sung for generations. “Documenting and preserving this heritage through multimedia is a commendable endeavor,” he added.

CM Dhami urged the people of Uttarakhand to remain rooted in their traditions and contribute to spreading the state’s folk culture. He reiterated that the culture and traditions of Uttarakhand are an integral part of its soul.

Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Vikas bhi, Virasat bhi” (Development with Heritage), CM Dhami said the Uttarakhand government is working on both development and cultural preservation. He highlighted projects such as the reconstruction of Kedarnath and Badrinath shrines, and the revival and beautification of ancient Manaskhand temples with multi-crore investments.

He also noted the progress in developing the Haridwar-Rishikesh Ganga Corridor and Sharda Corridor. He recalled how the state government enabled ropeway access to the Surkanda Devi temple, eliminating the earlier need to trek.

The event was attended by Cabinet Minister Shri Subodh Uniyal, folk singer Preetam Bhartwan, and a large number of spectators.
(Department of Information and Public Relations)