Maha Kumbha’s grandeur warrants the name ‘Sanatan Kumbha’

Statement by Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Avadheshanand Giri of Juna Akhada

Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh): “We Indians live on the level of emotions. More than 50 crore people have visited Maha Kumbha. Seeing the way devotees are flocking to this grand event, I feel that even the term ‘Maha Kumbha’ seems small. It should be called ‘Viraat Kumbha’ (Colossal Kumbha), ‘Anant Kumbha’ (Infinite Kumbha), or ‘Sanatan Kumbha’ (Eternal Kumbha),” stated Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Swami Avadheshanand Giri of Panchadashnam Juna Akhada, the largest akhada in the country.

Key Points from Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Avadheshanand Giri’s Address:

1. In this country, we organise Kumbhas for sports, farmers, and students as well. Kumbha represents vastness. Looking at the overwhelming participation in Prayagraj’s Maha Kumbha, I feel it should be called ‘Sanatan Kumbha’.

2. Everything related to Hindus is eternal and invincible. We are an ancient and eternal civilisation. Hindu Dharma has existed since time immemorial. Our traditions are timeless.

3. Kumbha is not a recent event. It has existed since the era of Satyayuga. During the war between Devas and Asuras, when the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean) took place, drops of Amrita (nectar of immortality) fell at Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik. Since then, Kumbha Mela has been celebrated.

4. It is Sanatan Dharma that draws people here. Imagine the level of acceptance Maha Kumbha has received ! Even those who could not physically attend are still participating in spirit. Maha Kumbha has received global recognition. It is free from caste or sectarian divisions, no one here asks about caste. Social harmony and unity in diversity are evident here.

5. I thank Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, as it is due to his efforts that Maha Kumbha has been organised so well.

“Young people thirst for truth, which is why they are coming to Maha Kumbha” – Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Avadheshanand Giri

Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Avadheshanand Giri remarked: “Today’s youth are highly aware. At Maha Kumbha, we have observed their thirst for truth. This Kumbha is not just fascinating to Indians but also has immense appeal abroad. Foreign devotees attending this event have shown keen interest in Yoga, Ayurveda, and Upanishads. Seeing this, I can confidently say that the radiance of Sanatan Dharma is spreading across the world. Young people are eager to understand the essence of this civilization, a philosophy that encompasses water, fire, air, cosmic energy, and celestial bodies. Brahman is all-pervasive, and here, one can truly experience unity.”