New Delhi: Ahead of his visit to Prayagraj on Monday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah described the Maha Kumbh as a unique representation of the continuous flow of Sanatan culture, expressing his eagerness to take a holy dip at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers.
In a post on X, Shah stated in Hindi, “Mahakumbh signifies the uninterrupted flow of Sanatan culture. It embodies our eternal life philosophy rooted in harmony. Today, I look forward to bathing in the confluence and receiving blessings from the saints during this grand festival of unity in the holy city of Prayagraj.”
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will join the Home Minister for this important occasion. Shah is scheduled to perform the ritual bath on the 15th day of the Maha Kumbh.
His itinerary includes arriving at Bamrauli Airport at 11:25 a.m., taking a helicopter to the DPS helipad at 11:50 a.m., and reaching Arail Ghat by noon. He will then take a boat to the VIP Jetty, arriving at 12:15 p.m.
During a recent visit to Gujarat, Shah emphasized the cultural importance of the Maha Kumbh, encouraging everyone to participate in this event, which occurs once every 144 years. He remarked, “Kumbh conveys a message of harmony and unity, transcending religion, sect, or caste. Food is provided without discrimination. No other event in the world promotes unity as strongly as Maha Kumbh.”
Shah also urged the youth of Gujarat to experience the Maha Kumbh, sharing that he has attended the Kumbh nine times and has witnessed the Ardh Kumbh as well.
Additionally, a Dharma Sansad will be organized in the fair area to unite followers of Sanatan Dharma. The Virat Sanatan Dharma Sansad will take place at the Shanti Seva Camp, led by spiritual guru Devkinandan Thakur, with participation from Shankaracharyas, heads of 13 Akharas, and various sadhus and saints.
The Maha Kumbh, one of the most significant Hindu festivals, began on January 13 with the ‘Pavitra Snan’ and celebrated its second day on Makar Sankranti, coinciding with the ‘Amrit Snan.’ The festival will conclude on February 26, Maha Shivratri, with upcoming sacred bathing dates on January 29 (Mauni Amavasya), February 3 (Basant Panchami), and February 12 (Magh Purnima).
Despite the cold winter, thousands of devotees have been flocking to the Triveni Sangam to partake in this sacred tradition, with over 10 crore devotees having already taken the holy dip, marking an unprecedented turnout at the Maha Kumbh.