Prayagraj, Jan 19 (NationPress) A significant milestone was achieved at this year's Magh Mela as environmental conservation took center stage for the very first time. Under the guidance of the Panchtattva Foundation, a dedicated 'Panchtattva Paryavaran Karyalaya' was established within the Mela grounds in Prayagraj. This initiative aimed to showcase the profound connection between water, forests, and life.

This effort marked a fascinating transition towards intertwining environmental consciousness with spiritual customs.

As part of the initiative, a distinctive 'Panchtattva Paryavaran Padyatra' focusing on water conservation was organized. The procession attracted saints, seers, devotees, and the general populace, uniting them in a common pursuit of ecological responsibility. The march was spearheaded by the acclaimed environmentalist and water conservation advocate Shipra Pathak, who is affectionately known nationwide as the 'Water Woman.'

Commencing from the Panchtattva Paryavaran Shivir on Harshvardhan Marg and concluding at Ganga Ghat near Bridge No. 4, Shipra Pathak walked alongside numerous dandi sadhaks and saints. This symbolic and spiritual expedition conveyed a potent message—that spirituality and environmental preservation are intrinsically linked and must coexist.

This initiative distinguished itself through its introspective and transformative approach during the Magh Mela on Mauni Amavasya, which typically garners considerable attention due to processions and discussions surrounding rituals and bathing customs.

Shipra Pathak encouraged devotees to reflect deeply. She posed a crucial question: if the waters of the Triveni Sangam are not maintained clean and safeguarded, how will the traditions of Kalpavas, Magh Mela, and Mahakumbh endure in the years to come?

During the march, saints and sadhaks held saplings in their hands, providing a striking visual representation of faith intertwined with responsibility toward future generations.

Pilgrims present at the Magh Mela also pledged their support for Shipra Pathak’s ambitious 'One Crore Tree Plantation Pledge.' Tulsi saplings were distributed among devotees to emphasize the cultural and spiritual significance of nature conservation within Indian traditions.

Upon reaching Ganga Ghat, saints performed a holy dip, urging devotees to refrain from using polythene and to assist in maintaining cleanliness at the ghats.

The saints remarked that the Ganga is not merely a river but also a mother that sustains life. They asserted that ensuring the purity of the Ganga is a moral obligation for every devotee. They cautioned that plastic waste and pollution jeopardize not only the environment but also religious faith itself.

Mahadev Guru Ji, manager of Peepleshwar Mahadev, commended Shipra Pathak’s dedication to environmental protection, emphasizing its necessity for forthcoming generations. Guru Ji warned that neglecting water conservation could lead to future disputes over water scarcity and pledged his full support for the Panchtattva Foundation’s mission.

Bhairav Math’s Mahant Swami Shringeri Maharaj echoed this sentiment with the slogan 'Jal hai to kal hai' (If there is water, there is a future), confirming the complete backing of his Akhara for the conservation movement. He underlined that the role of saints must extend beyond rituals to active involvement in protecting society and nature.

Expressing her gratitude to the saints, journalists, and devotees, Shipra Pathak remarked that the overwhelming backing for water conservation had fortified her determination. 'If there is no water in the Triveni, the very concept of the Magh Mela and Mahakumbh will cease to exist,' she stated, urging individuals to incorporate water conservation into their daily routines.

She further emphasized that making the ghats polythene-free is not just the responsibility of the government or administration but a collective duty shared by the millions of devotees visiting the sacred site. Pathak insisted that maintaining the cleanliness of the Ganga and Triveni is entirely feasible if everyone accepts their share of responsibility.

The padyatra commenced with Vedic chants recited by Gurukul students, accompanied by the resonating sound of conch shells, creating a spiritually uplifting atmosphere. Numerous women also participated, amplifying the message of environmental protection through significant participation. Hundreds of volunteers and devotees from Panchtattva joined in.

More than a mere event, the Panchtattva Paryavaran Padyatra conveyed a profound message: safeguarding faith necessitates safeguarding nature. Without the conservation of water, forests, and land, cultural traditions cannot persist.

Shipra Pathak’s initiative will be remembered as a pivotal moment in the history of the Magh Mela—one that aimed to transform environmental awareness into a widespread spiritual movement.