Joshimath Renamed to Jyotirmath to Reflect Ancient Roots

The Chamoli district administration has renamed Joshimath town to its ancient name Jyotirmath. The decision was made following longstanding local demands and an announcement by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. The proposal was approved by the Central government in June. Jyotirmath is historically significant as the place where Adi Guru Shankaracharya attained divine knowledge.

The Chamoli district administration has officially renamed the town of Joshimath to its ancient name, Jyotirmath. The decision, announced by District Magistrate Himanshu Khurana, will take effect once it is notified in the state gazette.

Local residents had long demanded the name change, which Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami pledged to pursue last year. The proposal was submitted to the Central government and received approval in June.

Historically, Jyotirmath holds significance as the site where Adi Guru Shankaracharya attained divine knowledge in the eighth century, leading to its name Jyotirmath, after Jyotieshwar Mahadev. Over time, the name evolved to Joshimath. The town serves as the gateway to Badrinath Dham.

(With inputs from agencies.)