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Time of India

DJ, liquor, and now cricket? Viral video from Kedarnath sparks outrage

Live Events (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel A video showing a group of people playing cricket near the Kedarnath temple has gone viral, triggering widespread outrage on social media over the perceived desecration of a sacred Hindu pilgrimage clip was first shared by Uttarakhand Ekta Manch, which strongly condemned the act. In its post, the group wrote, 'In this holy place, everything is happening except devotion to God. Someone is setting up a DJ and turning it into a dance bar, someone is fighting with sticks, someone is playing cricket, someone is selling liquor, and someone is celebrating their honeymoon. Truly, Hinduism is in danger.'The post also demanded the implementation of the Fifth Schedule to protect religious sites and traditions. It is, however, not clear when the incident video was later reshared by The Jaipur Dialogues, which added, "There should be strict action against these people. Kedarnath is a sacred place & it has some Maryada. Can people play cricket like this in Mecca? Why do we keep silence on such issues?"Social media users were divided in their responses. One commented, 'Unfortunately, most Hindu pilgrimage sites have become tourist and recreational hubs. Sad.' Another disagreed, saying, 'Emotions aside, they might be locals. We can't expect them to be in constant Bhakti mode.' A similar sentiment read, 'So locals of Kedarnath should stop living life completely?'Some demanded action: 'Punish and ban these people. Set an example.' Others urged calm: 'Just let them play. Don't overreact.'The controversy comes amid heightened scrutiny of visitor behavior at sacred sites. Earlier this week, the Kedarnath Dham Yatra was temporarily halted due to falling debris and stones at the Munkatia Sliding Zone near challenges, the 2025 Kedarnath Yatra has witnessed record-breaking footfall, which officials attribute to improved infrastructure and growing spiritual enthusiasm. Authorities have deployed enhanced security and medical teams to manage the high-altitude pilgrimage at over 11,000 feet in the Himalayas, the Kedarnath temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and holds immense religious importance. The temple doors were opened to devotees this year on May 2.