Pakistan is a paradigm example of a failed state that has undergone an extremely dangerous form of radical Islamisation.
Badrinath Temples
Besides being an ancient religious centre, Badrinath also attracts tourists
because of its natural beauty.
founded by Shankaracharya in the four quarters of India. The place derives
its name from the word 'badri', meaning berries that once grew here abundantly.
It is situated on the confluence of the Alaknanda and the Rishi Ganga.
BadrinathAncient Hindu texts categorically state that a visit to Badrinath is
something of an absolute must to complete a pilgrimage. The importance of the
place is evident from the space scribes of the Mahabharata and the Puranas
(ancient Hindu texts) had dedicated to it. The shrine of Badrinath in this city
attracts thousands of pilgrims from all over India.
Badrinath Temple
The Badrinath Temple is dedicated to Vishnu (Preserver in the Hindu Trinity
of Creator-Preserver-Destroyer). The presiding deity of the temple is Badrinath
(another form of Vishnu), also called Badri Vishal or Badrinarayan.
Shankaracharya is believed to have installed the deity inside the shrine after
it was thrown into the Narada Kunda (a hot water spring near the temple) in the
days of Buddhist ascendancy.
Badrinath is depicted sitting in the padmasana ('lotus posture'), in which
the feet are placed on opposite thighs. He is surrounded by a host of gods.
The most important ones amongst these are Kubera, the God of Wealth, and
Ganesha, the God of Wisdom and Prosperity.
Within the temple complex is an another shrine dedicated to Laksmi, the
Goddess of Fortune. This shrine is situated to the left of the main temple
building. The front portion is painted in red. Outside the exit door of the
Badrinath Temple is the seating place of Shankaracharya, who meditated here. The
temple remains closed during winter.
