Indian Minister Sonowal arriving in Kathmandu tomorrow

BY A STAFF REPORTER

Kathmandu, Aug.7: India’s Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, is scheduled to visit Kathmandu for a religious trip. 

He is expected to arrive on August 8 to participate in the Dashmahavidya Rudra Hawan Mahayagya, which has been underway at Hanshamandap within the Pashupatinath Temple premises since July 30.

According to the chief advisor of the Mahayagya, Dr. Milan Kumar Thapa, Minister Sonowal will attend the event at the invitation of prominent religious leader Swami Mahamandaleshwar Krishnananda Paramhans Kalidas Baba (Kali Baba). 

Religious leaders from India are also expected to accompany him.

Dr. Thapa said that a similar Dashmahavidya Vishnu Saharsakoti Hawan was organised in Mumbai earlier this year, with invitations extended to Indian leaders, artists, sportspersons, and other prominent figures. “The objective of inviting Minister Sonowal is to promote Nepal’s religious destinations, including Pashupatinath Temple and Lumbini and to support economic growth through spiritual tourism,” he said.

Currently, six major religious ceremonies are being held at Pashupatinath Temple throughout Shrawan (July/August), including the Dashmahavidya Rudra Hawan Mahayagya, which concludes on August 9. Proceeds from these rituals will be used for social welfare, according to the organisers.

Meanwhile, spiritual leader Dr. Guruji Kumaran Swami, who has established the fifth Dham in Cambodia, expressed interest in investing in Nepal. During interactions with Nepali entrepreneurs and business leaders, he inquired about investment opportunities and government support for potential ventures.