Prayagraj witnessed a large gathering of devotees at Triveni Sangam as Maha Kumbh commenced with the ‘Shahi Snan’ on the auspicious occasion of Paush Purnima on Monday. A large number of devotees are arriving at the bank of Triveni Sangam – a scared confluence of rivers Ganga, Yamuna and ‘mystical’ Saraswati. Devotees took a holy dip and performed the sacred ritual on this auspicious occasion.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath extended warm greetings on the auspicious occasion of Paush Purnima and welcomed devotees to the grand spiritual gathering, emphasising the confluence of faith and modernity that the Mahakumbh represents.
CM Yogi wrote in a post, “Greetings on Paush Purnima. The world’s largest spiritual and cultural gathering ‘Mahakumbh’ is starting from today in the holy city of Prayagraj. All the revered saints, Kalpvasis, and devotees who have come to experience unity in diversity, to meditate and take a holy bath at the confluence of faith and modernity are heartily welcomed. May Maa Ganga fulfil all your wishes. Best wishes for the inauguration and first bath of Maha Kumbh Prayagraj. Sanatan Pride-Maha Kumbh Festival.”
The festive spirit was palpable as over 50 lakh devotees took a holy dip at the Sangam Triveni on Sunday, ahead of the first bathing festival, Paush Purnima. The gathering included saints, sages, men, women, children, and the elderly, all immersed in devotion. Earlier on Saturday, another 33 lakh people participated in the holy ritual, and over 45 crore devotees are expected to take part in the event over the coming weeks.
Because of the MahaKumbh, Prayagraj has undergone a remarkable transformation under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Once characterised by narrow, worn-out roads, the city now boasts upgraded infrastructure, including the construction and improvement of more than 200 roads, ensuring seamless connectivity for devotees.
The Yogi Adityanath-led government’s commitment to providing a smooth and convenient experience for pilgrims has brought cheer and enthusiasm among the attendees. The first “Amrit Snan” will take place on Makar Sankranti, January 14, with all Akharas participating in a traditional bathing sequence. As the Mahakumbh progresses, it continues to symbolise unity in diversity and the pride of Sanatan Dharma.
A devotee Vijay Kumar said, “… The arrangements here are very good. There is an arrangement for everything – for food and accommodation… the roads are also good.” “We go to Kumbh Mela wherever it is organised. I live in a small temple – I go to every pilgrim in India…,” another devotee said.
A devotee from Rajasthan’s Jaipur, Chunni Lal said, “…I thank CM Yogi Adityanath and PM Modi; we all are feeling good by being here.” “The government has made good arrangements. I am thankful to the media as well… We are going to take a holy dip,” a devotee said.
Meanwhile, NDRF teams and water police of Uttar Pradesh Police deployed at places to ensure the safety and security of devotees. This year, Maha Kumbh, the largest spiritual gathering in the world, has become more special because of the rare celestial alignment that occurs only once in 144 years.
Traffic Police authorities have made elaborate arrangements and implemented a detailed plan to ensure smooth vehicular movement and safety for devotees visiting the Maha Kumbh Mela
Notably, the entry route to the Sangam Mela area will be through Jawaharlal Nehru Marg (Black Road), while the exit route will be via Triveni Marg. During the major bathing festivals, the Akshayavat Darshan will remain closed for visitors.
Parking lots for vehicles coming from Jaunpur would include Chini Mill Parking, Purva Surdas Parking, Garapur Road, Samyamai Temple Kachar Parking and Badra Saunoti Rahimapur Marg, Northern/Southern Parking. The Maha Kumbh is being celebrated after 12 years, and over 45 crore devotees are expected for the event. The Maha Kumbh will conclude on February 26. (ANI)
