PM Narendra Modi hailed the success of the Maha Kumbh held in Prayagraj, describing it as a prime example of ‘sabka prayaas’ (everyone’s effort), where the entire world witnessed the magnificence of India. Speaking in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, March 18, PM Modi stated that the Maha Kumbh “reflects the spirit of a rising India.”
He acknowledged the contributions of many in making the Maha Kumbh a success, expressing gratitude to the ‘karm yogis’ from both the government and society.
The 45-day Maha Kumbh, one of the world’s largest religious gatherings held once every 144 years, concluded on February 26, with over 66 crore people bathing at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers. PM Modi himself took a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam on February 5 and prayed to Goddess Ganga.
The Prime Minister emphasized that despite global challenges, including wars in the Middle East and Europe causing divisions between nations, the “show of unity is our great strength.”
He remarked, “In these challenging times, the grand demonstration of unity at the Maha Kumbh was our great strength. Unity in diversity has always been India’s hallmark, and we witnessed it on a grand scale in Prayagraj.”
PM Modi also expressed pride in seeing the younger generation of India connect with the Maha Kumbh, “embracing traditions and faith with pride.” The Kumbh saw participation from several politicians, actors, and foreign dignitaries.
“Mahakumbh has given a lot of inspiration. We have many big or large rivers, some of which are endangered. Inspired by the Kumbh, we should expand ‘Nadi Utsav’. This will teach the importance of water conservation to the new generation,” the PM said.
“The world saw India’s grandeur in the form of the Maha Kumbh,” he said. “It sparked a national awakening that will inspire future achievements and provide a fitting response to those who doubt our strength.”
However, the Maha Kumbh was not without controversy. On January 29, a stampede occurred during Mauni Amavasya, resulting in the government reporting 30 deaths, although the opposition claimed the toll was higher.
Additionally, the opposition pointed to a report from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) which revealed concerning levels of ‘faecal coliform’ bacteria in the Kumbh waters, criticizing the BJP-led Yogi Adityanath government for poor hygiene management.
