Dance on DJ Beats at Kedarnath Sparks Outrage; Case Filed After Viral Video

Authorities take swift action to protect sanctity of the shrine; Mobile phone ban and ₹5000 fine imposed for reels in temple premises

Kedarnath, Uttarakhand: A video showing a group of pilgrims dancing, singing, and making noise to DJ music in the sacred premises of the Kedarnath temple has gone viral on social media, triggering widespread outrage and a swift administrative response. The Rudraprayag district administration and police have taken serious note of the incident, filing a case against those involved for disturbing the sanctity of the holy site.

According to officials, the video was recorded before the temple’s official reopening for the Char Dham Yatra on May 2. While the video gained traction online during the pilgrimage season, initial investigation confirms it predates the opening of Kedarnath’s gates.
The Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) officer Girish Dewali lodged a formal complaint at the Sonprayag police station. Following the complaint, an FIR has been registered under multiple sections, and an investigation is underway. Authorities are now scanning social media platforms to identify the individuals involved, and action will be taken as per the law.
To preserve the sanctity of the Char Dham sites, the BKTC has implemented strict regulations. A ban has been imposed on shooting reels or videos within the temple complexes of both Badrinath and Kedarnath. Offenders may be subject to confiscation of their smartphones and a penalty of ₹5000.

With Char Dham Yatra experiencing an increase in visitors, especially young pilgrims, there has been a rise in concerns of obscene content being recorded and posted. To counter this, more police personnel have been deployed along the trek. Special monitoring is also being carried out on social media influencers and YouTubers to prevent disrespectful behaviour within temple premises.
Police have also issued a public advisory urging citizens not to forward or circulate the viral video, emphasizing that it is disrespectful to the religious sanctity of Kedarnath Dham.

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