Badrinath draws 60,000 pilgrims during fortnight of ancestral veneration

Badrinath Dham is witnessing unusually high footfall as pilgrims from across India converge on the shrine during Pitripaksh, the 16-day period considered auspicious for performing last rites and ancestral rituals. The influx has been particularly pronounced at Brahmakpal, where devotees perform pinda daan (offering of rice balls) and tarpan (libations) for deceased ancestors.

Official figures indicate that more than 60,000 pilgrims have visited the sacred site within the past eight days alone, underscoring the religious significance of the period and drawing worshippers from every corner of the country. The surge reflects a long-standing tradition whereby families travel considerable distances to perform these ceremonies at major pilgrimage centers.

The increased visitor numbers have placed considerable strain on the Badrinath Highway, with vehicular congestion reported across multiple stretches of the mountain route. Local authorities reported some easing of traffic conditions on Sunday compared to the previous two days, though congestion remains elevated.

The temple administration has been managing the pilgrim flow to accommodate the seasonal demand while maintaining safety protocols at the high-altitude shrine. The rush is expected to continue throughout the Pitripaksh period, which culminates with Mahalaya, marking the end of the auspicious fortnight for ancestral remembrance.