Mahakumbh Nagar (UP), Feb 9: Some sadhu groups express dissatisfaction with the focus on viral personalities at the Maha Kumbh, asserting that it distracts from the festival’s essence—devotion and spirituality.
“Mahakumbh is not about glamor and luxury, it’s a gathering of sadhus, devotees, and the Sanatan faith,” stated Mahant Dharmendra Das, leader of the Udasin Akhara Bandhua Kala Cantonment and chairman of the All India Udasin Communal Sangat.
Since the Maha Kumbh commenced last month, various influencers and celebrities have gained fleeting fame, including model-turned-sadhvi Harsha Richaria, garland vendor Mona Lisa, ‘IIT baba’ Abhay Singh, and actress Mamata Kulkarni.
“If the media prioritizes these personalities over the real sadhus, the fault lies with the media. You should reflect on this,” Das remarked in an interview at Sector 20 of Triveni Road Mela Sthal in Prayagraj Mahakumbh.
He pointed out that many devotees come to the Sangam to spend the night under the stars and bathe in the Ganga, showing little interest in the more extravagant amenities.
His comments came in light of the tragedy that occurred during the Mauni Amavasya, which is considered the most auspicious day of the festival, resulting in numerous fatalities.
Das emphasized that the authentic seekers of faith find “true salvation.” “These devotees have journeyed to the Sangam. We have much to learn from their dedication.” Responding to the title of ‘mahamandaleshwar’ conferred upon Mamata Kulkarni by an akhara, he explained, “The titles of Mahamandaleshwar and Mandaleshwar are assigned after discussions with the akhara seers. Those who are distinguished scholars and have rendered significant service may receive such titles.
“However, the title of Mandaleshwar is not permanent; the akhara reserves the right to revoke it for any misconduct,” he added. Subsequently, the Kinnar Akhara removed Kulkarni from her position.
Regarding the stampede during the Kumbh, Das conveyed that he still grieves over that tragic day.
Official reports indicate that 30 people lost their lives, with 60 others injured.
Das mentioned, “Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath worked diligently, making regular visits to oversee the arrangements. However, officials appeared preoccupied with VIP mobility rather than caring for the ordinary devotees.” He suggested, “Officials seemed to focus on catering to their friends and family, undermining Yogi Adityanath’s efforts.”
Many caught in the stampede were devotees eagerly waiting for the ‘snan’ or sacred dip on Mauni Amavasya.
When asked if the tragedy could have been prevented with better facilities, Das responded, “Some devotees possess such profound faith that they choose to sleep on the ground. Regardless of how extensive the arrangement, some individuals prefer to spend the night under the open sky, returning home after their morning dip.” He estimated that out of an anticipated 50 crore attendees at the Maha Kumbh, around 15-20 crore share this sentiment. As per the UP government, nearly 39 crore pilgrims visited the Maha Kumbh by February 6.
On the stampede, he called for an inquiry into the decision to close pontoon bridges, which led to massive crowds accumulating at the Sangam Nose where the incident unfolded.
The UP government has initiated a judicial commission to ascertain blame, as police cited sudden overcrowding as the cause.
Responding to Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav’s claims of “mismanagement” during the Kumbh, Das replied, “This is a ‘mela’, not a luxury hotel. Those who gather along the Ganga, singing bhajans in the morning and returning after their dip, experience no issues. It’s only those desiring five-star treatment who are dissatisfied.” Opposition parties have criticized the incident as a result of Adityanath’s mismanagement of the event.
The Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj began on January 13 and will run until February 26. (Agencies)
