Actor Sara Ali Khan’s debut movie in 2018 was titled Kedarnath, an apt title given the actor’s affinity to visit the Badrinath and Kedarnath temples every year. However, if she were to visit the Hindu temples henceforth, Badri-Kedar Temple Committee (BKTC) chairman, Hemant Dwivedi, says that she must sign an affidavit proving faith.
A fresh controversy has emerged after the Badri-Kedar Temple Committee (BKTC) announced that individuals who are not formally identified as followers of Sanatan Dharma must submit a written declaration of faith to enter the sacred temple complexes of Badrinath Temple and Kedarnath Temple.
The decision has drawn widespread attention after the committee specifically referenced Bollywood actor Sara Ali Khan, who frequently visits the shrines.
BKTC’s New Entry Rule Explained
BKTC chairman Hemant Dwivedi stated that non-Hindus who wish to visit the temples must provide an affidavit affirming their faith in Sanatan Dharma. The proposal, reportedly approved unanimously on March 10, aims to regulate entry based on religious belief rather than background.
According to the committee, visitors like Sara Ali Khan would be permitted to offer prayers if they formally declare their devotion and submit the required affidavit.
Why Sara Ali Khan Is at the Centre of the Debate
Sara Ali Khan, daughter of Saif Ali Khan and Amrita Singh, has often spoken about her spiritual connection with Kedarnath. Her 2018 debut film Kedarnath further strengthened her association with the pilgrimage site.
The actor has frequently shared glimpses of her visits, expressing a deep personal sense of peace and belonging at the temple. However, she has not yet publicly responded to the BKTC’s latest directive.
Char Dham Yatra Context and Implementation
The development comes just ahead of the annual Char Dham Yatra, which is set to begin on April 19. The Kedarnath Temple is scheduled to open on April 22, followed by the Badrinath Temple on April 23.
With over six lakh devotees already registered, authorities are preparing for a large influx of pilgrims. The BKTC has also forwarded its proposal to the Uttarakhand government for further consideration and possible enforcement.
Similar Precedents in Indian Temples
This is not the first instance of entry restrictions based on faith. The Jagannath Temple has long maintained a policy allowing entry only to Hindus.
In another recent example, actor-politician Pawan Kalyan’s daughter was required to submit a declaration of faith at the Tirupati Temple, highlighting how such practices exist across major religious institutions.
Wider Debate on Faith and Access
The BKTC’s decision has sparked a broader conversation about religious access, personal belief, and institutional authority. While some view the move as preserving sanctity and tradition, others question its implications for inclusivity and individual spiritual expression.
As the Char Dham Yatra approaches, the issue is likely to remain in focus, especially if more high-profile cases emerge.
