Uttar Pradesh: As the much awaited Mahakumbh Mela approaches, Prayagraj is a city ablaze with spiritual zeal.
Credits: Uttar Pradesh state tourism
Wearing saffron and coated in ashes, sadhus from the Mahanirvani Akhara made their way into the Mahakumbh camp while singing the name of Mahadev and beating a small two-headed drum called the Damaru. There were a few sadhus on horseback.
In the meantime, police officers with garlands greeted the saints of Atal Akhara as they arrived at the Mahakumbh camp in a magnificent procession. Wearing garlands, riding horses, thumping drums, and submerged in ashes, they made their way into the camp area. Additionally, a few observers were spotted carrying the Akhara’s flags.
Seers from several major akhadas have already arrived at the campsite, including Niranjani Akhada, Ahwan Akhada, and Juna Akhada, the largest Akhada in the Sanyasi tradition.
Vishwasanand Saraswati, Acharya of Atal Akhada said, “Everyone should come to the Kumbh Mela to witness the unity of the people gathered here and try to promote and establish similar unity in their own countries.”
Spiritual leader Jagadguru Narendracharyaji Maharaj, who participated in 2019 Mahakumbh Mela said that excellent arrangements have been made for this year’s mela. “We are very happy with our respected Chief Minister Yogi Ji, who has made excellent arrangements. I was at the Kumbh in 2019, and there is a lot of difference between the arrangements then and now. My blessings are with the Chief Minister now,” Narendracharyaji Maharaj told ANI.
Keshav Prasad Maurya, the Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, declared that all Mahakumbh preparations were finished and invited everyone to Prayagraj to see the magnificent Kumbh.
“Prayagraj is fully prepared to fulfil the responsibility of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’. We have made preparations in all the areas of Prayagraj. Prime Minister Modi has also come to Prayagraj, the Chief Minister Yogi also keeps coming. In such a situation, everyone’s responsibility increases. I appeal to everyone to come to see the divine, grand, Kumbh of Prayagraj,” Deputy CM Maurya told ANI.
Prayagraj is ready for the Mahakumbh and anticipates more than 45 crore devotees to attend, according to Uttar Pradesh Minister JPS Rathore.
Held once in 12 years, the Mahakumbh is set to take place in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26.
On January 14th (Makar Sankranti), January 29th (Mauni Amavasya), and February 3rd (Basant Panchami), the most significant bathing ceremonies, called Shahi Snan (royal baths), will be held.
Uttar Pradesh Police have placed 2,700 AI-enabled cameras and used underwater drones to improve security at the Mahakumbh Mela.
The Uttar Pradesh’s Culture Department will set up 20 small stages at key locations across Prayagraj, allowing tourists, devotees, and locals to experience the country’s diverse cultural heritage over 45 days. Folk dance forms from various states across India will be performed on these stages.