TNR News Network
DHARAMSHALA: In a historic and spiritually significant development, Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla inaugurated India’s first national centre for Tantric and Vedic studies, named ‘Tantrakul’, at the revered Svasthani Mata Temple in Dehra sub-division of Kangra district.
The event was marked by traditional rituals as the Governor offered prayers at the temple and planted an Indian gooseberry (Amla) sapling in the temple premises, symbolising growth and spiritual wisdom.
For centuries, Tantra Vidya has occupied a mysterious space in the Indian spiritual tradition. Rich in ritual, symbolism and esoteric practices, it is one of the most complex paths in the broader framework of Sanatan Dharma. However, its association with black magic, witchcraft and occult practices has often led to widespread misunderstanding and fear.
At its core, Tantra is a sacred spiritual science, designed to awaken inner consciousness, align the mind and body with divine forces and ultimately lead the practitioner toward liberation (moksha). It includes meditative disciplines, mantra chanting, yantra worship and rituals that seek to balance cosmic energies.
Yet, certain aspects of Tantra, particularly left-hand practices (Vamachara), have been adopted or distorted into forms of ‘Aghori Tantra’, ‘vashikaran’ and ‘black magic’. These practices, often operating outside the boundaries of mainstream religious institutions, aim at material gains, control over others, or invoking supernatural powers.
First National Tantrakul Centre to teach Vedas, tantric practices
According to organisers Saket Kumar Mishra and Temple Manager Vinod Sharma, Tantrakul will function as a dedicated institution for imparting Vedic knowledge, Tantra Vidya and mantra-based spiritual training. The centre aims to train initiated practitioners (sadhaks) in ritual practices, mantra sadhana and spiritual disciplines, and will offer structured education in Vedas and Vedangas.
The initiative is envisioned as the first of its kind in the country and seeks to preserve, systematise and transmit India’s ancient spiritual wisdom rooted in the Tantric tradition.
Gathering of spiritual traditions and devotees
The inaugural ceremony saw a large turnout of devotees, with the temple complex echoing with mantras, shankh sounds and the aroma of incense. More than 40 sadhaks affiliated with the Kamakhya Peeth, a major Tantric tradition, participated in the pujas and rituals conducted during the event. Ceremonies included Sat Chandi Path, Rudri, Ganesh Puja and Kali Sadhana, with participation from tantric practitioners across the Himalayas and hill regions.
Local MLAs Kamlesh Thakur (Dehra), who is the wife of Himachal Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, and Bikram Singh Thakur (Jaswan-Pragpur) were also present at the event, lending their support to the spiritual and cultural significance of the project.
Boost to Dehra’s spiritual identity and tourism
Organisers highlighted that the establishment of Tantrakul will help position Dehra as a national centre for Tantra Sadhana, potentially attracting spiritual seekers and scholars from across India and abroad. The centre is expected to foster cultural heritage, encourage spiritual education and boost religious tourism in the region.
Local residents expressed pride and optimism, seeing the initiative as a step toward national recognition of Dehra’s spiritual roots. Many believe it could open new avenues for economic development through pilgrimage and spiritual retreats. There are also indications that Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu may visit the centre in the coming days, underlining the state’s commitment to promoting cultural and religious heritage.
