Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited Prayagraj on Monday to participate in the ongoing Maha Kumbh celebrations, a two-month-long spiritual event drawing millions of devotees from across the globe.
Shah took a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam, the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers, alongside Hindu saints and seers, offering prayers and paying homage to the event's spiritual significance.
Accompanied by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and his deputies Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak, Shah arrived at the Arali Ghat via a boat ride. During his visit, he also paid homage at the revered Akshay Vat, a sacred tree believed to symbolize eternal life in Hindu mythology. The Akshay Vat holds immense spiritual significance and is considered a key pilgrimage site within the Kumbh premises.
In a gesture symbolizing gratitude, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath welcomed the Home Minister with a ceremonial Rajat Kumbh (silver urn), reflecting the state's appreciation for Shah's leadership and support in ensuring the success of the Maha Kumbh.
Speaking on the occasion, yoga guru Baba Ramdev hailed Shah as "a proud symbol of Sanatan Dharma" and emphasized the cultural and spiritual importance of the Maha Kumbh. "This is not just a festival; it is a celebration of Sanatan Dharma's glory.
The Maha Kumbh represents the golden era of our eternal traditions and faith," Ramdev said, underscoring the global resonance of the event.
Earlier in the day, Shah expressed his sentiments on X (formerly Twitter), writing, "Maha Kumbh is a unique symbol of the uninterrupted flow of Sanatan culture.
Kumbh reflects our eternal philosophy of life based on harmony. Today, I am eager to take a dip in the confluence and seek the blessings of the saints in this great festival of unity and integrity in the holy city of Prayagraj."
During his day-long visit, the Home Minister also interacted with Hindu seers.
According to the Maha Kumbh Media Centre, he met with the Maharaj and saints of Juna Akhara and shared a meal with them, strengthening ties with key religious leaders and underlining the government's commitment to preserving India's cultural heritage.
Shah's visit comes days after the entire Uttar Pradesh cabinet, led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, participated in the ritual of taking a holy dip at the Sangam, inaugurating the spiritual festivities.
The Maha Kumbh has seen an unprecedented surge in devotees this year. On the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti, over 3.5 crore devotees, including saints and seers, bathed in the sacred waters of the Ganga.
For the first time, Shankaracharyas from all four Peethas were present at the event, highlighting the unity of India's religious traditions.
With its rich spiritual and cultural heritage, the Maha Kumbh continues to embody the ideals of harmony, faith, and devotion, drawing millions of pilgrims and dignitaries to Prayagraj.