The Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj wrapped up on Wednesday, attracting more than 66 crore visitors to the Sangam, where the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mystical Saraswati rivers converge. On Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended the Maha Kumbh and acknowledged the hard work of the Centre, the Uttar Pradesh government led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and the local residents for their hospitality towards devotees from all over the country during the 45-day festival. He noted that the enormous turnout symbolized a nation that is now free and no longer bound by a mindset of servitude. "The Maha Kumbh has come to a close. The grand 'mahayagna' of unity has concluded," he expressed in a blog post about the event, which occurs every 12 years. He also mentioned the challenges of organizing such a large event and offered apologies for any issues that arose.
I understand that organizing such a large event was quite a challenge. I offer my prayers to Maa Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati, asking for forgiveness if we have not met our worship obligations. If we have not adequately served the devotees, who are like God to me, I also seek forgiveness from the community," he expressed in Hindi.
Tragically, at least 30 devotees lost their lives during a stampede at the Maha Kumbh, which attracted massive crowds from all over the country. "For the past 45 days, I have witnessed countless people from every part of the nation making their way to the banks of Sangam. The desire to bathe at Sangam grew stronger with each passing day. Every devotee was focused on one thing – the 'Snan' (holy dip) at Sangam," he shared.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)