Prayagraj, 27 January 2025: Union Home Minister Amit Shah participated in the Maha Kumbh festivities in Prayagraj on Monday, taking a ceremonial dip at the Triveni Sangam alongside seers attending the massive religious gathering.
Clad in saffron robes, Shah performed the sacred act amidst tight security.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also visited the Sangam but took the holy dip separately.
Later, the two leaders joined forces to perform an aarti, marking their presence at one of the most significant events of Sanatan culture.
Before heading to the Sangam, Shah interacted with prominent seers, including Junapithadheeshwar Mahamandaleshwar Acharya Avdheshanand Giri Ji Maharaj, aboard a cottage on a floating jetty. Shah’s son, ICC Chairman Jay Shah, also accompanied him at the Maha Kumbh, dressed in saffron attire like his father.
Jay Shah reportedly sought blessings from the seers for his newborn son.
The home minister’s visit brought unparalleled security measures to the Maha Kumbh area and Prayagraj city. Local authorities enforced a strict no-vehicle zone in the Mela area and diverted traffic on several city routes, impacting residents and pilgrims alike.
Ahead of his visit, Shah expressed his anticipation on X, calling the Maha Kumbh a “unique symbol of the continuous flow of Sanatan culture” and a festival celebrating unity. “The Kumbh showcases the life philosophy of Sanatan Dharma, rooted in harmony,” Shah wrote.
By 10 a.m. on Monday, the Uttar Pradesh government reported that over 53.29 lakh devotees had taken a holy bath at the Maha Kumbh.
The event has hosted more than 13.21 crore pilgrims since its commencement on January 13 and is set to continue until February 26.
Among them, over 10 lakh ‘Kalpvasis’ have taken up temporary residence in the Mela area for spiritual practices.
