Sara Ali Khan could be barred from praying at Badrinath, Kedarnath unless she signs ‘Sanatan’ affidavit

The committee, which oversees major Himalayan shrines that see lakhs of pilgrims during the Char Dham Yatra, approved the proposal on March 10 to restrict entry to only those who follow Sanatan Dharma, including access to the garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum).

Speaking to reporters, Dwivedi said Bollywood actor Sara Ali Khan would be allowed to pray if she expresses devotion to Sanatan Dharma and submits the affidavit.

He added that a standardized format for the affidavit has already been drafted.

Political reactions

The decision has sparked criticism and debate across political lines. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Arvind Sawant questioned the very definition of ‘Sanatan’ and asked where such a certificate could be obtained.

Samajwadi Party leaders, including MLA Ashutosh Verma and MP Ramji Lal Suman, emphasized that Hinduism and Hindutva are meant to bring people together.

Suman noted that many Hindus visit the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, highlighting that such criteria cannot restrict faith.

Congress leader Husain Dalwai said Hinduism and Sanatan are not related, criticizing the affidavit requirement.

BJP response

The BJP defended the committee’s decision. MP Kangana Ranaut said, “Everyone here is ‘Sanatani’.

"‘Sanatan’ has no beginning and no end. All religions are 1000–1500 years old. ‘Sanatan’ is the ultimate truth. Sara Ali Khan is also ‘Sanatani’. What is the problem for her to give an affidavit?” she said.

Bihar BJP President Sanjay Saraogi added that Badrinath and Kedarnath are pilgrimage sites for believers in Sanatan Dharma, not merely tourist spots, and faith in the religion is expected of visitors.