Sara Ali Khan Asked To Submit Affidavit for Kedarnath Darshan Over Muslim Identity: BJP Welcomes, SP Slams

A fresh political row has erupted over access to two of India's most revered Himalayan shrines-Kedarnath Temple and Badrinath Temple-after new guidelines were announced for non-Hindu visitors. The controversy intensified after Bollywood actor Sara Ali Khan was cited as an example while explaining the rule.

The Badri-Kedar Temple Committee has proposed that non-Hindus must submit an affidavit affirming their faith in Sanatan Dharma if they wish to offer prayers at the temples. Committee chairman Hemant Dwivedi stated that such a declaration would be necessary to ensure that visitors approach the shrines with the "right intent and belief." Referring to Sara Ali Khan, he said she would be allowed darshan if she expresses devotion and provides the required affidavit.

The move has triggered sharp reactions from opposition parties, who have termed the rule exclusionary and unnecessary. The Samajwadi Party strongly criticised the decision, arguing that places of worship should remain open to all, regardless of religious identity. Party spokesperson Ashutosh Verma pointed out that Sara Ali Khan's film Kedarnath had introduced many Indians to the region's culture and geography, and questioned the need to impose such restrictions now.

Echoing similar concerns, leaders from the Shiv Sena (UBT) also raised questions about the definition of "Sanatan faith" and how it could be officially certified. MP Arvind Sawant asked what constitutes proof of belief and who determines such criteria. Another Samajwadi Party leader, Ramji Lal Suman, highlighted India's long tradition of shared religious spaces, citing examples like Ajmer Sharif Dargah, where people from different faiths gather in large numbers.

On the other hand, the Bharatiya Janata Party has defended the proposal, saying it is aimed at preserving the sanctity of the temples. BJP MP Bhola Singh argued that religious sites are meant for believers who can follow rituals appropriately, adding that visitors without faith might not fully respect traditions. Rajya Sabha MP Balyodi Umesh Nath Maharaj went further, supporting restrictions on non-Hindus entering such temples altogether.

The debate has also drawn attention because of Sara Ali Khan's long-standing association with Kedarnath. The actor has frequently visited the shrine since her debut film's shoot there in 2017. Known for her personal spiritual inclination, she undertakes these trips quietly-often trekking or using helicopter services to reach the high-altitude temple at over 3,500 metres. Her visits typically include early morning prayers and offerings, without any special privileges or publicity-driven agenda.

Over the years, glimpses from her Kedarnath trips shared on social media have resonated with fans, making the temple a recurring part of her public persona beyond cinema. Dedicated to Lord Shiva and counted among the twelve Jyotirlingas, Kedarnath holds immense religious importance for Hindus across the country.