Create ‘MahaKumbh’ to Showcase India’s Religious Traditions at 2027 Nashik Kumbh Mela: CM Devendra Fadnavis

Mumbai : To highlight India’s diverse religious traditions during the Simhastha Kumbh Mela in Nashik-Trimbakeshwar from August to November 2027, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has proposed creating a grand ‘MahaKumbh’ near Nashik. This center would serve as a convention hub, showcasing temples, pilgrimage sites, and cultural heritage from across the country and the state.

A preparatory meeting chaired by CM Fadnavis was held at Sahyadri Guest House to review plans for the upcoming Simhastha Kumbh Mela. Discussions covered traffic management, crowd control, Sadhu Gram (monk village), river purification, infrastructure development, and related initiatives.

To elevate Nashik as a global destination and boost its economy, CM Fadnavis emphasized branding the Kumbh Mela. He proposed the creation of a Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Religious Corridor to develop Nashik as a ‘Religious Hub’ akin to Prayagraj. Plans also include promoting the development along the Godavari River, building accommodations at key temples, and acquiring additional land for Sadhu Gram. CM Fadnavis also directed authorities to clear encroachments promptly and implement a Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) policy for municipal governance.

Acknowledging the influx of domestic and international visitors, CM Fadnavis suggested constructing 8–10 helipads in Nashik and improving infrastructure, including widening and concreting roads connecting Nashik with key cities like Mumbai, Shirdi, and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. He also proposed a four-lane road between Igatpuri and Trimbakeshwar and modernizing the ring roads and other major routes. A Ram Kal Path and a religious corridor in Trimbakeshwar were also suggested.

For security, CM Fadnavis instructed the police department to provide adequate accommodations for personnel, install CCTV cameras, set up barricades, and establish efficient public announcement systems.

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde called for resolving any challenges related to the Kumbh Mela. He emphasized maintaining clean water in the Kumbh area, constructing sufficient sanitation facilities, and implementing long-term solutions for water hyacinth. Additionally, he directed measures to prevent overcrowding and ensure safety during the event.

The meeting was attended by key officials, including Water Resources and Disaster Management Minister Girish Mahajan, Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik, and several department heads and Nashik authorities.