Prayagraj: Mahakumbh 2025 has drawn an astonishing number of sadhus and saints, with stories of their past lives leaving many in awe. Among these spiritual seekers is actress Ishika Taneja, a renowned name in the glamour industry. Ishika, who completed her education in London and holds titles such as Miss India and Miss World Tourism, has now embarked on a journey towards eternal truth, leaving behind her affluent lifestyle and ancestral properties.
Ishika revealed that despite having everything, she always felt an inner void. This realization led her to embrace the propagation of Sanatan Dharma. She has taken mantra initiation and is now dedicated to spreading the teachings of Sanatan at Mahakumbh. Ishika emphasized the importance of not just achieving peace and happiness in life but also enhancing the beauty of one’s existence, which inspired her to choose this spiritual path.
Initiation Under Shankaracharya
Ishika Taneja has received initiation from Shankaracharya Sadanand Saraswati of Sharada Peeth. Her guru has instructed her to sing praises of Lord Krishna. Ishika clarified that she has not formally taken sanyas nor become a nun but has started serving humanity for peace and self-contentment. Discussing Mahakumbh, she described it as a global phenomenon.
Views on Attire and Spiritual Growth
When asked about attire, Ishika expressed that respect is not derived from wearing short clothes, but traditional attire is always viewed with honor. She has recently started studying the Vedas and is also reading works by Osho, Brahma Kumaris, and the Bhagavad Gita. She plans to translate the essence of the Gita in the future. Regarding marriage, Ishika mentioned having minimal desires left in life, feeling content, and advising others to seek similar fulfillment.
Opinions on Viral Faces at Mahakumbh
Commenting on Monalisa, who went viral at Mahakumbh, Ishika described her as a beautiful Sanatani but lamented that public harassment forced her to leave the event. On Harsh Richaria, Ishika criticized the use of the term “sadhvi” for her, stating that initiation and guru mantras alone do not make one a saint; thoughts and behavior are equally crucial. She suggested that Harsh’s presence at Mahakumbh seemed driven by a desire for virality rather than genuine spiritual pursuit.
