Union Home Minister Amit Shah made a significant visit to Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj on Monday, immersing himself in the spiritual and cultural grandeur of the Maha Kumbh Mela. This ancient festival, celebrated at the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers, serves as a unique manifestation of India’s Sanatan culture and attracts millions of pilgrims from across the globe. Shah, accompanied by prominent spiritual leaders, including Baba Ramdev and other revered saints, took a holy dip at the Sangam Ghat, seeking divine blessings and expressing reverence for India’s timeless spiritual heritage.
In a post on his official X handle, Shah described the Maha Kumbh as a "unique symbol of Sanatan culture," highlighting its importance as a celebration of unity, harmony, and the profound life philosophy of Sanatan Dharma. He shared his excitement about participating in the event, stating, "The Kumbh showcases the life philosophy of Sanatan Dharma, which is rooted in harmony. I am eager to take a dip at Sangam and receive the blessings of saints at this great festival of unity and integrity in the holy city of Prayagraj." Shah’s visit symbolized the government’s commitment to upholding and celebrating India’s spiritual and cultural legacy on a global stage.
After completing his sacred dip at the Triveni Sangam, Shah embarked on a spiritually enriching itinerary. His next stop was the Bade Hanuman temple, a popular pilgrimage site revered for its connection to Lord Hanuman. He also paid his respects at the Abhayvat, a sacred banyan tree that holds a prominent place in Hindu mythology and spirituality. Shah then proceeded to the Juna Akhara, one of the oldest and most influential monastic orders in India, where he interacted with sages and seers and partook in a traditional lunch as part of the spiritual rituals.
The home minister’s engagements also included a visit to Guru Sharananand Ji's Ashram, where he met with the esteemed Guru Sharananand Ji and Govind Giri Ji Maharaj. He later held important discussions with the Shankaracharyas of Sringeri, Puri, and Dwaraka, reflecting the deep respect for spiritual leaders who play a pivotal role in preserving and propagating India’s religious and cultural values. These interactions underscored Shah’s focus on fostering a dialogue with the spiritual community to reinforce India’s rich traditions and inspire unity among its people.
The Maha Kumbh Mela, which began on January 13 with the observance of Paush Purnima, has already witnessed an astonishing turnout of over 110 million devotees within its initial fortnight. Pilgrims from different walks of life have flocked to Prayagraj to take a holy dip in the Sangam’s sacred waters, which are believed to cleanse sins, bestow blessings, and guide the soul toward moksha, or liberation from the cycle of rebirth. The festival considered the largest religious gathering in the world, remains a profound testament to the enduring appeal and significance of India’s spiritual heritage.
Shah’s participation in the Maha Kumbh holds a deeper symbolic meaning, as it highlights the festival’s role in promoting unity, cultural pride, and the sanctity of India’s ancient traditions. His presence, along with the active participation of saints and spiritual leaders, sends a powerful message about the importance of preserving and celebrating India’s diverse religious and cultural fabric.
As Shah concluded his visit and returned to Delhi in the evening, his engagement at the Maha Kumbh Mela stood out as a reaffirmation of the festival’s timeless relevance. It not only showcased the vibrant spirit of Sanatan Dharma but also emphasized the festival’s global stature as a gathering that brings together millions in their shared quest for spirituality, harmony, and divine blessings. The Maha Kumbh, with its rich rituals, profound significance, and ability to unite people across boundaries, continues to embody the essence of India’s spiritual identity on the world stage.
