PRAYAGRAJ: The world’s largest spiritual congregation commenced with the ‘Shahi Snan‘ during Paush Purnima on Monday, drawing worshippers from India and across the globe to Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj, where they participate in the sacred bathing ritual at Triveni Sangam during the Maha Kumbh Mela.
Several international devotees braved the chilly winter temperatures to immerse themselves in the sacred waters of Triveni Sangam, where the rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and the ‘mystical’ Saraswati converge.
“Mera Bharat Mahaan. India is a great country. We are here at Kumbh Mela for the first time. Here we can see the real India – the true power lies in the people of India. I am shaking because of the vibe of the people of this holy place. I love India,” said a Russian devotee.
Francisco, a visitor from Brazil experiencing India for the first time in his quest for Moksha, described his participation as extraordinary. He acknowledged the cold temperature of the confluence waters whilst expressing the inner warmth he experienced following his immersion.
“I came to India for the first time. I practice Yoga and I am searching for Moksha. It’s amazing here; India is the spiritual heart of the world. The water is cold, but the heart is filled with warmth,” he said.
A Spanish pilgrim conveyed his gratitude for having the opportunity to immerse himself in the sacred waters.
“We are many friends here–from Spain, Brazil, Portugal. We are on a spiritual trip. I took a holy dip and enjoyed it much; I am very lucky,” he said.
Jitesh Prabhakar, a German national originally hailing from Mysore, attended the Mela accompanied by his spouse Saskia Knauf and their infant son, Aditya.
“It doesn’t matter if I live here (in India) or abroad–the connection should be there. I practice yoga every day. One should be grounded and always try to travel towards inner self,” he said.
“I am very excited. I always like coming here,” his wife added.
A devotee from South Africa’s Cape Town said, “It’s so beautiful. The streets are clean, the people are so friendly and happy. We practice Sanatan Dharm.”
Another devotee from South Africa’s Cape Town Nikki said, “It’s very very powerful and we are very blessed to be here at river Ganga…”
Security personnel from RAF, Police and CRPF have been deployed at the Mela Kshetra to maintain safety and protect the visiting devotees.
The significance of this year’s Maha Kumbh is heightened due to a unique astronomical alignment occurring once in 144 years.
The Traffic Police have established comprehensive arrangements and implemented detailed protocols to facilitate smooth traffic flow and ensure visitor safety at the Maha Kumbh Mela.
The designated entry point to the Sangam Mela area is through Jawaharlal Nehru Marg (Black Road), with Triveni Marg serving as the exit route. The Akshayavat Darshan will not be accessible during major bathing festivals.
For vehicles arriving from Jaunpur, designated parking areas include Chini Mill Parking, Purva Surdas Parking, Garapur Road, Samyamai Temple Kachar Parking and Badra Saunoti Rahimapur Marg, Northern/Southern Parking.
This grand celebration, occurring after a 12-year interval, anticipates participation from over 45 crore devotees and will continue until February 26.
(With inputs from agency)
