How is CM Fadnavis Preparing for the 2027 Nashik Kumbh Mela?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Chief Minister Fadnavis assures smooth arrangements for the Kumbh Mela.
- Discussions on infrastructure and crowd management are underway.
- Focus on pollution control for the Godavari River.
- Seers recommend changing the term 'Shahi Snan' to 'Amrit Snan'.
- A dedicated authority for the Kumbh Mela is proposed.
Nashik, June 1 (NationPress) Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis made a visit to Nashik on Sunday to lead an essential preparatory session for the Simhastha Kumbh Mela, which is set to take place in 2027. He assured that the magnificent event will be conducted without any hitches.
The meeting brought together seers from 13 major akhara groups, along with officials from various government sectors engaged in planning this enormous spiritual assembly.
After the meeting, Fadnavis addressed the press, stating: "A session was held regarding the Kumbh Mela, attended by representatives from the 13 major Akharas. Saints, sadhus, and mahants were all present, and we discussed the necessary arrangements for the occasion."
He elaborated that critical topics such as event scheduling, infrastructure development, crowd management, and pollution concerns regarding the Godavari River were thoroughly examined.
"The dates for significant events have also been established, and announcements will be made shortly... We will also focus on how to manage the influx of pilgrims. The pollution of the Godavari was another topic of discussion," he added.
Fadnavis emphasized that every possible effort would be made to guarantee that the 2027 Kumbh Mela is organized seamlessly, with a strong emphasis on cleanliness, convenience, and inter-departmental cooperation.
Mahant Rajendra Das Ji Maharaj of Abha Nirvani Akhara, also referred to as the Nirvani Akhara, mentioned that the date for the Amrit Snan will be announced soon.
Highlighting a significant cultural issue, he supported the call from several seers to substitute the term Shahi Snan with Amrit Snan.
Bhakti Charan Das Maharaj, the national spokesperson for the Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad, stated: "This recent decision aligns with the precedent set during the last Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, where 'Shahi Snan' was renamed 'Amrit Snan' after extensive talks among scholars and saints."
"The term 'Shahi' is thought to have origins from the Mughal era, and many experts concurred that it is unsuitable in a spiritual setting. The new term aligns more closely with Indian spiritual values," he noted.
During the meeting, the seers also advocated for designated land reservations for the Nashik Kumbh Mela, stricter measures against pollution of the sacred Godavari, and the establishment of a dedicated Kumbh Mela authority to enhance amenities for saints and devotees.
Rajendra Das Maharaj from the Nirmohi Akhara remarked, "We offer our prayers to the sacred Godavari River that this Kumbh Mela manifests as grand and divine. The arrangements for the Amrit Snan and other necessities were discussed with the Chief Minister."
The 2027 Simhastha Kumbh Mela in Nashik is anticipated to attract millions of pilgrims and saints, similar to the turnout seen during the Prayagraj Maha Kumbh this year.