With the onset of the Magh month, the Magh Mela has begun in Prayagraj, accompanied by the Panchkosi Parikrama that revives ancient traditions and cultural beliefs. Pilgrims, including saints and sadhus from various akharas, were observed engaging in rituals at the Triveni Sangam. The Akhara Parishad saints shared their thoughts on the 1,000-year anniversary of the attack on Somnath Temple, expressing gratitude to the Uttar Pradesh government for the arrangements made.
Mahant Ravindra Puri, the president of Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad (ABAP), mentioned that the Juna Akhara has arrived with numerous saints for the sacred bath and rituals. He appreciated the administration’s thorough preparations for the month-long event, comparing the atmosphere to a mini Kumbh Mela. The saints emphasized the significance of the fair and Panchkosi Parikrama for devotees.
Shankaracharya Swami Narendranand Saraswati from Kashi Sumeru Peeth highlighted the month-long fair’s spiritual importance, tracing back to ancient times. He underlined the symbolic value of the Triveni Sangam pilgrimage, signifying the enduring faith of Hindus. The cleansing ritual in the Narmada and Ganga rivers was noted for its purifying effects on the mind and body, leading towards spiritual enlightenment.
Hari Giri, the custodian of Juna Akhara, described the Panchkosi Parikrama as an age-old tradition dating back thousands of years, initially performed by Lord Ganesha and other divine beings. He acknowledged the efforts of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in preserving the sanctity of Prayagraj. The cessation of meat and egg sales in the area was attributed to the decisions taken by the Chief Minister.
