Varanasi Unveils 'Maha Kumbh Pathshala' in Primary Schools to Educate Children on Spiritual Heritage

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Varanasi Unveils 'Maha Kumbh Pathshala' in Primary Schools to Educate Children on Spiritual Heritage

Synopsis

In a significant move, Varanasi has launched the Maha Kumbh Pathshala initiative to educate primary school children on the Kumbh Melas' historical and spiritual significance. Students receive booklets and participate in classes, fostering broader community awareness about this monumental cultural event.

Key Takeaways

  • Maha Kumbh Pathshala launched in Varanasi.
  • Primary students receive a 10-page booklet on Kumbh Melas.
  • 30-minute daily classes to explore Kumbh's significance.
  • Encourages sharing knowledge within families.
  • Certificates awarded for exceptional understanding.

Varanasi, Jan 23 (NationPress) In a groundbreaking initiative, the Varanasi administration has launched the Maha Kumbh Pathshala program, designed to enlighten young learners about the historical and spiritual importance of the Kumbh Melas. As part of this program, primary school students in Varanasi have received a 10-page booklet that outlines the significance of various Kumbh festivals celebrated across India, including the Maha Kumbh.

Every day, students will engage in a dedicated 30-minute class to explore the religious significance of the Kumbh, thereby enhancing their understanding of its cultural and spiritual values. Additionally, students are encouraged to read the booklet at home and share their newfound knowledge with their families, fostering a wider awareness.

In an interview with IANS, Sneha, a student, expressed her enthusiasm about this educational opportunity: "In class today, we studied the Maha Kumbh, and our teacher provided us with a booklet to read at home for 30 minutes daily. We learned how the Maha Kumbh, Ardh Kumbh, and Purna Kumbh Melas are celebrated and what makes each unique."

Shivam, another student, shared insights into the origins of the Kumbh: "We discovered that the Maha Kumbh has ancient roots, starting from a conflict between gods and demons. The gods sought help from Lord Vishnu, who advised them to churn the ocean. This led to many treasures surfacing, including the Amrit Kalash, with drops of Amrit falling at four locations—Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain. This is where the Kumbh Melas originated!"

Himanshu Nagpal, the Chief Development Officer (CDO) of Varanasi, elaborated on the initiative's objectives: "We have crafted a detailed booklet on the Maha Kumbh, encompassing its history, current facilities, infrastructure, and geographical significance. This information will be disseminated in schools over the next three weeks, with 10-15 minute sessions each day, ensuring every child, except for those preparing for board exams, gains a comprehensive understanding of this grand spiritual event."

He further stated, "The Kumbh Mela is the largest pilgrimage globally, and it is essential for children across the nation to be educated about it. As the spiritual epicenter of the world, Varanasi must ensure its youth are well-versed in such a monumental occasion. The primary aim is to empower children with knowledge about the Kumbh and inspire them to share this information with their families and communities."

In recognition of their exceptional understanding, children who excel will receive certificates, highlighting the significance of this cultural education. Through this initiative, Varanasi aspires to nurture a generation that is not only spiritually enlightened but also deeply connected to India's rich traditions.