24-kosi Vanshgopal Tirth parikrama road in Sambhal

The 24-kosi Vanshgopal Tirth parikrama road: what happened?

Every month, pilgrims walk the 24-kosi parikrama around Vanshgopal Tirth in Sambhal. Much of the route is a dirt track, and it turns to mud. Local representatives had long asked for a paved road. The Cabinet has now cleared it, relaxing the cost norms of the project appraisal unit.

• The Cabinet approved new construction, widening and strengthening of the parikrama road.
• Existing paved parts of 3 m to 14 m width will be widened and strengthened.
• Land acquisition of 35.8673 hectares is included in the initial estimate.
• The Cabinet relaxed the norms of the project appraisal unit to approve the cost.

Why is Vanshgopal Tirth important?

• It is an ancient pilgrimage site in Sambhal with a legendary kadamba tree.
• The very old tree is seen as a memory of the tradition of the time of Shri Krishna.
• A 24-kosi parikrama is held there every month.

What other sacred sites does Sambhal have?

• Sambhal district has 68 tirthas and 19 wells.
• Major tirthas include Vanshgopal Tirth, Bhuvaneshwar Tirth, Chamunda Mandir Firozpur, Kshemnath Tirth and Chandeshwar Tirth Chandayan.

Why does the 24-kosi Vanshgopal Tirth parikrama road matter?

• Culture: Better access to a living pilgrimage tradition.
• Safety: A paved road and footpath protect walking pilgrims.
• Tourism: Religious tourism can bring income to rural Sambhal.

What can Prelims ask on the 24-kosi Vanshgopal Tirth parikrama road?

• Vanshgopal Tirth: Sambhal district; known for an ancient kadamba tree.
• Parikrama: 24-kosi, held every month.
• Sambhal: 68 tirthas and 19 wells.