Dharchula (Pithoragarh): A major religious and cultural controversy has erupted in the high Himalayas of Uttarakhand as the local Rang community strongly protested the installation of a Shivling and Nandi Maharaj statue at Navidhang, in front of the sacred Om Parvat. The community views the move as contrary to nature and their traditional beliefs, leading to swift administrative intervention.
Members of the Adi Kailash 20-20 organization, comprising people from various states, had planned to install a three-ton Shivling and Nandi statue on Monday. The group arrived in Dharchula on Saturday with the idol, intending to transport it further on Sunday. However, upon receiving information, the Rang Kalyan Sanstha and local residents launched strong opposition.
Rang Kalyan Sanstha president Prakash Gunjyal submitted a formal letter to the Sub-Divisional Magistrate, demanding immediate action to stop the installation. In the letter, he stated that some individuals were attempting to construct a religious site and install man-made idols without permission in front of the ancient and sacred Om Parvat.
“The Rang community does not worship artificial idols. This act is an encroachment and a direct assault on our religious faith and traditions,” Gunjyal said. The community believes the naturally formed ‘Om’ shape on Om Parvat is itself divine and worthy of reverence. They oppose any human-made structures at the site as it violates their longstanding customs.
Acting swiftly on the complaint, police stopped the truck carrying the Shivling at Garbadhar — approximately 27 km from Dharchula — and returned it to the Dharchula police station.
Timing and Tradition Concerns
Local priests, known as Dhami or Lamas in the Rang tradition, raised additional objections. Lama Govind Singh Gunjyal from Gunji village explained that installing any deity idol on Amavasya (new moon day) is traditionally inauspicious. Moreover, the group did not seek permission or even inform local residents about their plans.
“This year, a major 12-yearly Jhumli or Samo festival — similar to the Kumbh — is taking place. During this sacred period, only household worship is permitted; large public rituals and installations are not allowed,” he added.
The Lamas have stated that installation is not possible this year. Any decision regarding future years would require extensive consultations, discussions, and consensus among all local Lamas and the community.
The Rang community’s unique traditions emphasize the purity of natural sacred sites. Om Parvat, with its distinctive natural Om symbol visible on the snow-covered slopes, holds profound spiritual significance for them. They argue that introducing man-made religious structures disrupts the sanctity of the area and their indigenous practices.
Administrative Alert
Local administration has become cautious following the protest. The quick response in halting the transport of the Shivling prevented the situation from escalating. Authorities are now likely to examine whether proper permissions were obtained and assess the cultural sensitivities involved before any further activity is allowed in the region.
The episode highlights the delicate balance between different spiritual traditions in the Himalayas. While the Adi Kailash 20-20 organization aimed to promote devotion to Lord Shiva near the revered Om Parvat and Adi Kailash region, the local community feels their voice and ancient customs must be respected.
As of now, the Shivling remains in Dharchula, and the installation stands postponed indefinitely. Community leaders have urged the administration to ensure that any future proposals respect local traditions and involve prior consultation with Rang representatives.
