PM Modi Describes Kumbh Mela as a “Grand Yajna of Unity” in Prayagraj
Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh), December 13: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his address at the Mahakumbh Programme on Friday, described the Kumbh Mela as a grand yajna (sacrificial offering) of unity, where all forms of discrimination are erased.
In his speech, PM Modi emphasized that the Kumbh Mela represents the coming together of diverse individuals—saints, scholars, and common people—into a unified collective. “The Kumbh Mela is a grand yajna of unity, where all forms of discrimination are offered as a sacrifice. Here, every Indian who takes a dip in the Sangam presents an extraordinary picture of ‘One India, Great India,'” he stated. “The distinction of castes disappears here, and the clash of communities is erased.”
The Prime Minister also highlighted the significance of the upcoming Maha Kumbh, which will take place next year. He confidently stated that the event would elevate the cultural and spiritual identity of India to new heights. “I say it with great confidence, I say it with great devotion. If I have to describe this Maha Kumbh in one sentence, then I would say that this will be such a Maha Yagya of unity that will be discussed all over the world,” he added.
PM Modi extended his congratulations to the workers and sanitation staff working tirelessly to ensure the success of the Maha Kumbh, acknowledging their dedication to creating “a new history” in Prayagraj. He reiterated that the Maha Kumbh would send a positive message across the country, fostering unity and cultural pride. “Such events send a positive message to every corner of the country and the society,” PM Modi noted, emphasizing that events like the Kumbh had been pivotal in preparing the foundation for large-scale social changes even when modern means of communication were unavailable.
The Prime Minister also took a moment to criticize previous Congress governments, accusing them of neglecting Indian culture and failing to prioritize events like the Kumbh and religious pilgrimages. He said, “The previous governments did not give attention to Kumbh and religious pilgrimages. Devotees kept suffering in such events, but the governments of that time did not care about it. The reason for this was that they did not have any attachment to Indian culture. But today, the government in the center and the state respects Indian culture. Therefore, the double-engine government considers its responsibility to provide facilities to the devotees coming to Kumbh.”
Earlier in the day, PM Modi offered prayers at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers, seeking blessings for the successful organization of the upcoming Maha Kumbh, which is set to take place from January 13 to February 26. During the ceremony, PM Modi performed the ‘aarti’ of the Triveni, praying for global welfare and harmony. The rituals were conducted by the ‘Tirth Purohits’ amid the chanting of Vedic mantras. He also made offerings of Akshat, Chandan, Roli, flowers, and traditional clothing as part of the ceremony.
Accompanying the Prime Minister were Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Governor Anandiben Patel, who were present at the event to offer their support and participation.