Temple to offer Sapta Rishi Forest plants to devotees as part of Forest and Environment Ministry’s special campaign

Mahakumbhnagar : Mahakumbh-2025 is set to offer devotees a unique and meaningful experience, blending spirituality with environmental consciousness. On the instructions of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the Ministry of Forest and Environment has initiated a special campaign aimed at enriching the spiritual and ecological significance of this grand gathering.

As part of the campaign, devotees coming from across the globe will receive a special prasad from the iconic Bade Hanuman Temple (Lete Hue Hanuman Mandir) in Prayagraj. Known for its deep mythological importance and spiritual reverence, the temple will offer Mahaprasad and saplings of the Saptarishi Vatika, symbolizing a harmonious connection between faith and nature.

As part of the initiative, Baghambari Gaddi and the Forest Department will present sandalwood and Rudraksha saplings to all the Shankaracharyas in attendance. This thoughtful gesture underscores the event’s commitment to promoting environmental sustainability while honouring spiritual leaders.

On the instructions of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the work of beautifying the main intersections of Mahakumbhnagar and the highways leading to it with natural landscaping is currently underway.

A total of 149,620 saplings are planned to be planted, with 137,964 already in place. These include species from the Saptarishi Vatika such as Tulsi, Agastya, Apamarg (Chichida), Durva, Bel, and Shami, chosen for their cultural and ecological significance.

Arvind Kumar Yadav, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Prayagraj, highlighted the meticulous planning behind the initiative. “As per the vision of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, preparations are being made to make Mahakumbh grand and an elevating experience. The planting of these saplings is just one of the steps to create a memorable and eco-friendly event,” he said.

The Mahant of Bade Hanuman Temple and Shrimath Baghambari Peethadheeshwar, Pujya Balveer Giri Ji Maharaj, emphasized the temple’s commitment to creating a unique and cherished experience for devotees.

“Given the special attachment of devotees to the temple and its spiritual significance, this year we decided to do something different. Devotees will not only leave with spiritual blessings but also with saplings that embody the values of harmony and growth”, he stated.

Alok Kumar Pandey, IT Head of the Forest Department, pointed out that Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has envisioned this Mahakumbh as a global cultural landmark. Special directives have been issued to ensure seamless arrangements and create a memorable experience for all attendees, he added.

“The goal is to set a new standard of grandeur, making this Mahakumbh an inspiration for future generations,” Pandey remarked.