Upon arriving in Srinagar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged the significance of the Shankaracharya Hill, a prominent feature south of the renowned Dal Lake in Srinagar, during his visit on Thursday, March 7.
Sharing his experience on social media, PM Modi expressed his admiration for the majestic Shankaracharya Hill from a distance upon his arrival in Srinagar.
His visit to inaugurate development projects totaling Rs 5,000 crore and participate in the 'Viksit Bharat, Viksit Jammu Kashmir' program marked his first trip to Srinagar since the revocation of Article 370 and the reorganization of Jammu and Kashmir into Union territories in 2019.
PM Modi's gesture of bowing before the Shankaracharya Hill upon landing at a nearby helipad underscores the hill's profound significance. Named after the revered philosopher and saint Adi Shankaracharya, the hill is home to the Shankaracharya Temple, also known as Gopadri, Sandhimana-parvat, Koh-e-Suleman, and Takht-i-Sulaiman. This temple stands as Kashmir's oldest shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva.
The temple's history dates back centuries, believed to have been visited by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century to propagate Hinduism's Vedantic philosophy. Over time, the temple has undergone several reconstructions and renovations, preserving its cultural and religious heritage.
The Shankaracharya Temple is considered a sacred pilgrimage site, attracting devotees, particularly during festivals such as Mahashivaratri. Its cultural significance is further emphasized by its designation as a 'monument of national importance' under the protection of the Archaeological Survey of India.
Beyond its religious significance, the Shankaracharya Hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of Srinagar, including landmarks like the Dal Lake, River Jhelum, and the Hari Parbat.
PM Modi's reverence for the Shankaracharya Hill during his visit to Srinagar reflects the spirit of 'unity in diversity' that characterizes India's rich cultural heritage and underscores the importance of preserving and celebrating its cultural landmarks.
