Prayagraj, Dec 19 (NationPress) In anticipation of the significant arrangements for Maha Kumbh set to occur in the ancient city of Uttar Pradesh early next year, sanitation workers, referred to as ‘safai Karamcharis’, have commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his notable gesture of honoring them by washing their feet during the Kumbh Mela in 2019.

The Prime Minister is expected to continue Mahatma Gandhi's tradition of recognizing sanitation workers at Maha Kumbh 2025, taking place from January 13 to February 26.

Sanitation workers hold an essential position in this grand and sacred religious festival by ensuring cleanliness throughout the site.

During the Kumbh Mela in 2019, PM Modi paid tribute to sanitation workers by washing their feet, acknowledging their significant contributions to maintaining hygiene at the event.

Sanitation workers in Prayagraj recounted their experiences to IANS, reflecting on the moment PM Modi honored them by washing their feet during the Kumbh Mela in 2019.

Recalling his encounter with PM Modi, local sanitation worker Jyoti stated: "When I met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2019, I felt a mix of pride and surprise, along with a wave of emotion. He honored me by washing my feet, which brought me immense joy. I never anticipated that anyone would show us such respect. Numerous Chief Ministers and Prime Ministers have come and gone, but no one has treated us with such dignity as PM Modi did. We hope that he will once again honor sanitation workers like myself this time."

In response to questions about the Opposition’s claims of PM Modi insulting B.R. Ambedkar, Jyoti remarked, "PM Modi respects everyone. Many prominent leaders from opposition parties have come and gone, yet none have treated sanitation workers with the same level of respect as he has."

Another sanitation worker, Naresh Kumar, shared, "During the Ardh Kumbh in 2019, I never imagined that PM Modi would wash my feet. When it happened, I was astonished that the Prime Minister of the nation would honor a sanitation worker like me. All of my fellow sanitation workers were elated by this event."

He added: "By washing my feet, PM Modi has brought joy to sanitation workers throughout the country. Prior to PM Modi, no Chief Minister or Prime Minister ever granted us this level of respect. Anyone witnessing this would feel immense pride. There have been significant changes in the country and the state during PM Modi's leadership. Furthermore, Uttar Pradesh has seen considerable development since 2019."