Mahakumbh embodies spiritual splendor and administrative excellence: CM Yogi

Lucknow : On the second day of the Budget session of the Assembly, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath highlighted the historical grandeur and administrative excellence of Prayagraj Mahakumbh 2025. Calling it a unique cultural heritage, he stressed that Mahakumbh is more than a religious festival—it is a global showcase of India’s spiritual and cultural legacy.

CM Yogi stated that the Mahakumbh has become a symbol of both spiritual magnificence and administrative excellence. Citing a report by the Himalayan Institute of Prayagraj, he highlighted that the event ignites spiritual awakening among Indians and serves as a living example of the core principles of Sanatan Dharma.

The unprecedented scale and participation this year reflect its universal appeal, attracting people from all castes, religions, and ideologies, as well as spiritual seekers from across the world. He described the event as a sacred tribute to India’s spiritual wealth and civilization, reinforcing the country’s deep-rooted traditions that have inspired ideologies worldwide.

Addressing opposition allegations of mismanagement, CM Yogi countered their claims by recalling past Kumbh events, notably the stampede and accidents in 1954, 1974, and 1986. He pointed out that in the 1954 Kumbh, despite the presence of then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and the President of India, a stampede claimed over 800 lives. In contrast, he stated that this year’s Mahakumbh prioritizes safety and crowd control, with extensive arrangements such as holding areas and parking facilities across multiple districts. These measures ensured smooth crowd management, making it possible for over two crore devotees to bathe safely in Prayagraj, a city with a maximum capacity of just 25 lakh.

Responding to opposition claims of VIP culture in the Mahakumbh, CM Yogi launched a sharp attack, stating that those who have enjoyed VIP privileges all their lives are now questioning VIP culture at the Mahakumbh. He remarked, “Those who talk about VIP culture were born with a silver spoon in their mouth. These people have never compromised on VIP facilities.”

Refuting the opposition’s false propaganda, he questioned, “If the Kumbh was only for VIPs, how did 56 crore devotees manage to take a dip in the Triveni Sangam?” He also dismissed the Samajwadi Party’s claim that the Amrit Snan was disrupted, stating that saints from all 13 Akharas participated in the scheduled rituals, witnessed by the entire world. He condemned attempts to politicize and defame a sacred event like the Mahakumbh for political gain.

CM Yogi addressed the tragic accident on Mauni Amavasya (January 29), when a barricade collapse led to injuries and fatalities. He reported that 66 devotees were affected, with 36 injured and 30 fatalities, 29 of whom have been identified. He praised the administration’s prompt response, ensuring the injured were swiftly taken to hospitals. Of the 36 injured, 35 have been discharged, while one remains under treatment.

The CM acknowledged existing pressure points in Prayagraj but emphasized that preemptive planning helped prevent a major disaster. A holding area had been designated 24 hours in advance in surrounding districts to control the crowd, minimizing potential casualties, he informed. CM Yogi also urged against spreading misinformation by linking incidents from other states to Prayagraj Mahakumbh.

CM Yogi praised the discipline and restraint of saints and devotees, crediting them for the smooth execution of this grand event. He recalled how, following the Mauni Amavasya incident, the saint community cooperated with the administration by delaying the Amrit Snan for a short period to ensure safety. Their restraint and collective spirit, he said, reaffirmed the Mahakumbh’s role in upholding India’s faith and cultural values on the global stage.

The culture of Uttar Pradesh and the Indian faith are respected at the global level. The government and the saints together have elevated the Mahakumbh to the top position among the world’s largest religious events.

CM Yogi dismissed the opposition’s false claims about the Amrit Snan, particularly the Samajwadi Party’s allegations that the ritual did not take place. He stated that the sacred bath was conducted with full religious traditions, with all 13 major Akharas, including seven Sanyasi, three Vaishnav, and three Udasi Akharas—participating.

He accused the opposition of deliberately spreading misinformation despite live media coverage of the event. “Even in an age of instant communication, some leaders and parties are trying to mislead the public with lies,” he said. He warned that politicizing sacred events like the Mahakumbh disrespects Indian culture and Sanatan Dharma.

Concluding his address, CM Yogi remarked that while a little bit of humor is natural in politics, turning politics into a farce is not justified. He assured that the government remains fully committed to ensuring the safety and convenience of devotees and will continue its efforts to uphold the global stature of Indian cultural traditions.