![Lancaster braces for another round of rain after major flooding Tuesday [update] | Local News](https://bloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.com/lancasteronline.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/9/5d/95da0f0f-6bed-4bcc-81e7-81ab299ad9a3/68636d3dbdc15.image.jpg?resize=766%2C500 "Lancaster braces for another round of rain after major flooding Tuesday [update] | Local News")
.png?w=700&c=0 "Tata Harrier EV price, range, specs compared with rivals")
Mukesh Ambani, the chairman of Reliance Industries and India’s wealthiest individual, made a significant donation to two of India’s most revered temples—Badrinath and Kedarnath in Uttarakhand on Sunday, October 20, 2024. His contribution of Rs 5 crore has once again highlighted his devotion to religious causes and his family’s tradition of supporting temple restoration and maintenance efforts.
A Sacred Pilgrimage
Mukesh Ambanialong with his entourage, was welcomed at the holy sites by Ajendra Ajay, the President of the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC). Clad in a traditional white kurta-pyjama and a beige Nehru jacket, Ambani took part in the religious rituals and offered prayers at both shrines. The visit underscores the significance of these sacred sites not just for the billionaire but also for millions of Hindus worldwide.
Ambani’s visit to these temples is not a rare occurrence. Over the years, he and his family have regularly made pilgrimages to Kedarnath and Badrinath, deepening their spiritual connection with these sacred places. In 2023, Mukesh Ambani visited these same shrines with his son, Anant Ambani, and Radhika Merchant, continuing a long-standing family tradition.
Who is Vasundhara, billionaire Pankaj Oswal’s daughter arrested in Uganda? A look at her career, lavish Rs 1649 crore house, family, and net worth
Mukesh Ambani loses Rs 16,800 crore in 24 hours – Check his current net worth and know how Gautam Adani added Rs 2235 crore to his wealth
Ajay Jadeja is the heir to the Jamnagar royal throne with Rs 1,450 crore net worth – Know about his various sources of income
Who is spiritual guru Sadhguru? A look at luxurious cars and bikes that he drives; Know about his education, charity, expensive assets, and more
History of Philanthropy at Badrinath and Kedarnath
This year’s Rs 5 crore donation echoes a similar contribution made by Ambani in 2022 when he donated the same amount to the temples through the Badri-Kedar Temple Committee (BKTC). This committee is responsible for the upkeep and functioning of the two important shrines, ensuring that devotees can continue to access them for worship and pilgrimage.
Significance of the Kedarnath and Badrinath Temples
Both Kedarnath and Badrinath hold immense spiritual value in Hinduism.
Kedarnath Temple:
Located at an altitude of 3,583 meters, Kedarnath is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, which are considered to be the holiest shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to legend, the Pandavas built the temple to seek forgiveness from Lord Shiva for the sins they committed during the Mahabharata war. The temple is part of the Char Dham Yatra, a pilgrimage that also includes Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri.
Badrinath Temple:
The Badrinath temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is said to have meditated at this very site. It is situated along the banks of the Alaknanda River, and pilgrims believe that a holy dip in the river purifies the soul. The temple is a vital part of the Char Dham circuit and remains one of the most important religious destinations for Hindus.
Ambani Family’s Religious Devotion and Generosity
Mukesh Ambani and his family are known for their deep religious beliefs and generous donations to temples across India. In September 2024, Anant Ambani made headlines by donating a 20-kg gold crown worth approximately Rs 15 crore to the Lalbaugcha Raja idol in Mumbai for Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.
Mukesh Ambani has also donated to other famous temples, such as the Guruvayur Temple in Kerala, where in 2023, he contributed Rs 1.51 crore to the temple’s ‘annadanam’ fund, which provides free meals to devotees. Additionally, Ambani has been a frequent visitor to the Tirumala Temple in Andhra Pradesh, where he has donated Rs 1.5 crore several times.
A Tradition of Giving
The Ambani family’s religious donations highlight a deep-rooted cultural and spiritual ethos that values giving back to society and supporting the preservation of India’s religious heritage. Mukesh Ambani’s donations not only support the maintenance of these temples but also strengthen the country’s cultural fabric by ensuring that these historical and spiritual sites continue to thrive for future generations.
