Prime Minister Narendra Modi
New Delhi: The Maha Kumbh has concluded—a grand ritual of unity has been accomplished. When a nation’s consciousness awakens, when it breaks free from the chains of centuries-old colonial mindsets and breathes the air of newfound energy, it creates a historic spectacle, just as we witnessed in the Unity Maha Kumbh at Prayagraj since January 13.
On January 22, 2024, at the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, I spoke about the transition from devotion to the divine to devotion to the nation. During the Maha Kumbh at Prayagraj, the presence of deities, saints, elderly, women, and youth alike reflected the collective consciousness of the country. This was truly a Unity Kumbh, where the faith of 1.4 billion Indians converged into a singular spiritual celebration.
In the same region of Prayagraj lies the sacred land of Shringverpur, where Lord Shri Ram met Nishadraj. This historical episode signifies the confluence of devotion and harmony. Even today, this pilgrimage site serves as an inspiration for unity and social cohesion.
Over the past 45 days, I witnessed millions of devotees from across the country making their way to the banks of the Sangam. The tide of emotions for a holy dip in the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati continued to rise. Each devotee was driven by a singular thought—taking a dip at the Sangam. The Triveni Sangam infused every pilgrim with enthusiasm, energy, and faith.
The organization of this Maha Kumbh at Prayagraj has set a benchmark for modern management professionals, planning and policy experts. There is no parallel event of such magnitude anywhere in the world. The global community remains astonished at how millions of people gathered at the banks of the sacred rivers without formal invitations or predetermined schedules—driven purely by faith.
I cannot forget those images—faces filled with immense joy and satisfaction after their holy bath. Women, the elderly, and even specially-abled individuals made every possible effort to reach the Sangam. A particularly heartening aspect was the participation of India’s youth in large numbers, signifying that they recognize their responsibility to preserve and carry forward India’s traditions and culture.
The sheer scale of participation in this Maha Kumbh has undoubtedly set a new record. Even those who couldn’t physically attend felt deeply connected. The sacred water carried back from the Kumbh by devotees extended its spiritual blessings to millions, reinforcing the collective spirit of devotion and unity.
This event has unfolded in a manner unprecedented in recent decades. It has laid the foundation for centuries to come. The turnout at Prayagraj far exceeded previous estimates, partly because administrative planning was based on past Kumbh experiences. Yet, nearly twice the population of the United States participated in this Unity Maha Kumbh.
Spiritual researchers analyzing the enthusiasm of millions of Indians will conclude that India, embracing its heritage with pride, is now surging ahead with renewed vigor. This signals the dawn of a new era that will shape India’s future.
A Tradition That Strengthens National Consciousness
For thousands of years, the tradition of Maha Kumbh has reinforced India’s national consciousness. Every Purna Kumbh has been a forum for saints and scholars to deliberate on the socio-political landscape over 45 days, providing new guidance to the country. These insights were reviewed every six years during the Ardha Kumbh, and every 144 years, in a Maha Kumbh, traditions that had become obsolete were shed in favor of modernization and relevant transformation.
The Maha Kumbh of 2024, occurring after 144 years, has delivered a crucial message for India’s development journey—the vision of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India). Just as people from all walks of life united for the Kumbh, it is now time for the nation to come together for the grand cause of building a developed India.
Recalling the episode where young Krishna revealed the universe in his mouth to Yashoda, this Maha Kumbh too has showcased India’s immense potential to the world. Now, we must move forward with unwavering determination to achieve the goal of a developed nation.
India’s spiritual power, which has been ignited by saints through the Bhakti movement and reinforced by thinkers like Swami Vivekananda and Sri Aurobindo, is now becoming the driving force of national progress. Mahatma Gandhi sensed this energy during the freedom movement, yet post-independence, India did not fully harness it. Now, I take immense satisfaction in witnessing the unity and resolve of the people in realizing this potential for a Viksit Bharat.
The successful organization of this grand event was no easy feat. I pray to Mother Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati for their blessings and seek forgiveness if we fell short in any way in our service to the devotees. To me, the people are divine, and if there were any shortcomings in serving them, I extend my sincere apologies.
A Salute to the Contributors
The devotion and dedication of the millions who participated in this Unity Maha Kumbh were matched by the service rendered by numerous individuals. As an MP from Uttar Pradesh, I take immense pride in acknowledging the commendable efforts of the administration, led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. This was not merely a state-run event; it was a collective effort by governance, administration, and the people alike.
From sanitation workers to police personnel, boatmen to drivers, and those preparing meals, every individual contributed with a spirit of devotion and service. The residents of Prayagraj, despite facing numerous challenges over these 45 days, displayed unparalleled hospitality towards the visiting pilgrims.
I express my heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to the people of Prayagraj and Uttar Pradesh. This Maha Kumbh has not just been a spiritual gathering but a testimony to India’s unity and collective faith—a true Mahakumbh of Unity and a herald of transformation for the future.
