Adi Badri: An Ancient Heritage Site

Geographical Location and Setting Adi Badri is located in the foothills of the Sivalik Hills in the northern part of Yamunanagar district, Haryana, India. It lies within a forested area and is considered part of the Bhabar region. The site holds religious, archaeological, and ecological significance and attracts numerous tourists and pilgrims.

Historical and Religious Significance Adi Badri is an ancient Vedic religious site associated with the Sarasvati River. It is believed to be the place where Ved Vyasa wrote the Bhagavata Purana and where the Pandavas stayed during their exile. The site features a Sarasvati Kund (pond) and various temples, where daily aartis and annual religious fairs such as the Adi Badri Akha Teej Mela and the Adi Badri-Kapal Mochan Kartik Purnima Mela are held.

Temples and Heritage Structures Adi Badri is home to a group of 9th-century Hindu temples, along with ancient sculptures and monuments related to the Vaishnavism, Shiva, and Shakti traditions. Prominent temples include:

• Adi Badri-Narayana Temple (dedicated to Vishnu)
• Shakti-Mantra Devi Temple
• Sri Kedarnath Temple (dedicated to Shiva)

Excavations by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) have unearthed several sculptures and monuments that highlight the site's historical importance.

Connection to the Sarasvati River The Somb River, which flows through this region, is believed by some to follow the course of the Rig Vedic Sarasvati River, making Adi Badri a vital site for those interested in understanding and worshipping this ancient river.

Sarasvati River Revival Efforts A major initiative to revive the Sarasvati River is currently underway, led by the Haryana state government.

• The Adi Badri Heritage Board has been established to develop the area and restore the river. This board collaborates with organizations such as the ASI, ISRO, and IITs for research and development.
• Plans are being executed to dig and revive a 212 km channel, including a 55 km section from Adi Badri to Uncha Chandna, through dam construction and land acquisition along the river’s paleochannel.
• Kurukshetra University has been designated as a research nodal agency, with scientists studying the river’s existence and its ancient course.

National Saraswati Festival The National Saraswati Festival, also known as Saraswati Mahotsav, is an annual five-day event held in honor of the Sarasvati River. It celebrates the belief that the river enters the plains from the Shivalik Hills at Adi Badri.

Tourism and Government Initiatives Adi Badri is being developed as a significant religious and archaeological tourist destination. The Haryana government is actively promoting the site through various initiatives, including infrastructure development and cultural programs.

Ramaswamy Sastry and Vighnesh Ghanapaathi