In his monthly radio programme, Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated the Maha Kumbh festival as a significant representation of India's unity in diversity. He referred to it as a “confluence of equality and harmony,” underscoring its long-standing tradition of uniting individuals from various backgrounds, irrespective of their social or economic status.

“People from across India and around the world gather on the sands of the Sangam. This tradition, which has persisted for thousands of years, is free from discrimination and casteism,” Modi stated. He further emphasised, “At the Kumbh, both the affluent and the less fortunate come together as one. Everyone takes a dip at the Sangam, shares meals in community kitchens, and receives ‘prasad’. This is why the Kumbh is truly the Maha Kumbh of unity.”

PM Modi also noted the increasing participation of youth in cultural and spiritual gatherings, particularly during the Kumbh Mela. He remarked, "You may have noticed that young people are actively engaging in the Kumbh. When the younger generation proudly connects with its cultural roots, it strengthens their foundation and ensures a bright future." He highlighted the growing digital presence at the Kumbh, stating, "This year, we are witnessing a significant digital footprint at the Kumbh." This illustrates how modern technology is being integrated into traditional events, reflecting the youth's deep ties to India's heritage while adapting to contemporary advancements.

The Maha Kumbh Mela, which commenced on January 13 and will continue until February 26, has already seen millions of pilgrims participating in rituals at the Triveni Sangam.

Dressed in a 2.75-metre unstitched clothes, the Avdhutani group arrived at the banks of the Ganga and their head was shaved as per tradition.

After taking a holy dip in the Ganga, they were given a water pot (Kamandal), Ganga 'jal', and a staff.

The final part of the initiation process will be performed by the Juna Akhada's Acharya Mahamandaleshwar, Swami Avadheshanand Giri.

Three foreigners also took part in the Naga Sanyasini initiation, making them members of the Shri Panch Dashnam Juna Akhada, Divya Giri said.

Among them, Bankiya Mariam from Italy took the 'Naga Diksha' and was rechristened Shivani Bharti. Bequeven Marie from France, after the initiation, is now renamed Kamakhya Giri. Mokshita Rai from Nepal also received the 'Naga Diksha' at the akhada and has been named Mokshita Giri.

A significant fire erupted at the Maha Kumbh Mela after two gas cylinders exploded in Sector 19, leading to flames engulfing several tents. Bhaskar Mishra, the in-charge of Akhara Police Station, confirmed that firefighters were promptly deployed to combat the blaze.

Ravindra Kumar, the District Magistrate of Prayagraj, stated that the fire broke out around 4:30 PM within a tent belonging to Gita Press and quickly spread to ten adjacent tents. Emergency teams from the police and local administration responded swiftly, managing to extinguish the fire. Kumar reassured that there have been no reported injuries or fatalities, and the situation is now under control.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited the site to assess the situation and spoke with officials and firefighting teams. The fire was brought under control thanks to the rapid response of approximately 15 fire tenders stationed nearby as part of safety measures for the massive event.

Source : DNA India