MAHAKUMBH NAGAR, Jan 27: On Monday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah participated in a ritual dip at the Triveni Sangam, coinciding with the ongoing Maha Kumbh festival.
Accompanied by prominent seers, Shah immersed himself around 1 pm.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also took a separate dip, accompanied by the resonating chants of mantras.
Prior to the dip, the Home Minister engaged with Junapithadheeshwar Mahamandaleshwar Acharya Avdheshanand Giri Ji Maharaj and other distinguished seers aboard a floating jetty cottage.
Shah’s visit was characterized by extraordinary security measures throughout the Mela area and in Prayagraj.
The Mela area was designated as a strict no-vehicle zone, leading to multiple route diversions in Prayagraj city, which affected both locals and pilgrims.
Earlier in the day, Shah expressed on X that the ‘Mahakumbh’ symbolizes the enduring essence of Sanatan culture, showcasing the life philosophy of Sanatan Dharma, which emphasizes harmony. “I look forward to taking a dip at Sangam and receiving blessings from saints at this significant festival of unity and integrity in the sacred city of Prayagraj,” he remarked.
As per the state government, by 10 am on Monday, over 53.29 lakh individuals had participated in the holy bath at the Maha Kumbh.
The Mela area was accommodating more than 10 lakh ‘Kalpvasis’, and since the religious congregation commenced on January 13, over 13.21 crore people have immersed themselves in the waters.
The Maha Kumbh is scheduled to last until February 26. (Agencies)
