Mahakumbh Nagar (UP), Jan 15: Defying the biting cold, enthusiastic devotees gathered at the Triveni Sangam for a holy dip during the Maha Kumbh on Wednesday. The air was filled with chants of ‘Har Har Mahadev’, ‘Jai Shri Ram’, and ‘Jai Ganga Maiyya’ as worshippers plunged into the frigid waters.
“This was my first experience taking a dip in the Sangam, and I felt truly rejuvenated afterward,” shared Nibar Chaudhary from Basti district, who was assisted by two companions as he made his way to the water.
Shivram Verma, who accompanied Chaudhary, praised the arrangements made by the officials for the attendees.
Nancy from Lucknow, visiting for the first time, expressed satisfaction with her experience at the Maha Kumbh.
“So far, it has been wonderful,” she noted.
Abhishek, hailing from Fatehpur district, remarked that his experience was positive, stating he faced no issues.
Vijay Katheria, a Kanpur resident, commended the security measures implemented at the event.
“My experience was pleasant, and the safety arrangements were well organized, with a sufficient police presence,” he remarked.
On Tuesday, seers from various ‘akharas’ participated in the first ‘Amrit Snan’ as part of the Maha Kumbh, coinciding with ‘Makar Sankranti’. Approximately 3.5 crore devotees immersed themselves in the holy waters at Triveni Sangam during this festival.
The scene was vibrant as ash-smeared Naga sadhus led the akharas, showcasing their prowess with traditional weapons, captivating onlookers with their skills in wielding spears and swords, as well as energetically playing the ‘damru’, highlighting rich cultural traditions.
Female Naga ascetics also made a notable appearance at the event, contributing to the diversity of the gathering.
The current Kumbh edition is significant, occurring 12 years after the last event, and is considered especially auspicious, as seers believe celestial alignments are favoring the occasion for the first time in 144 years.
The festival will continue until February 26. (Agencies)
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