Devotees from Russia and Ukraine, two nations locked in conflict for nearly three years, came together on Thursday at the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj to convey a message of peace and spiritual unity.
The serene atmosphere of Prayagraj became even more sublime as devotees braved the winter chill to sing kirtans and chant ‘Hare Rama Hare Krishna’.
A Russian devotee, speaking to ANI, shared her thoughts on the gathering, emphasizing unity among monks from different nationalities.
“I came here from Russia, and my Guru Maa came from Ukraine. Many of my Guru sisters and brothers have come from countries like Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Europe, and the USA. We all came here for the Maha Kumbh to take a bath in the Ganga on this auspicious day. As we know, all deities and divine energies come to bathe in the Ganga waters, so we follow their example,” she said.
Highlighting the significance of the event, she added, “This is a great gathering of people in the world. It’s the biggest festival ever, and we all come in here as Sadhu…whether it’s female or male, Russian-Ukrainian or Indian, we all are here…we all follow Sanatana Dharma.”
Prayers for Global Peace
Referring to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, the devotee expressed concern over global unrest and emphasized the importance of peace.
“First of all, this year, we pray for peace in the whole world. As you know, in our countries—Russia, Ukraine—still war going on. Israel and Palestine have also been conflicted, and many, many parts of the world, even now, 21st century, still some wars going on, so many conflicts, political, and economical, and we pray here first of all for peace in the whole world,” she said.
Record Participation at Maha Kumbh 2025
In just 11 days of the Maha Kumbh, over 97.3 million devotees, Kalpavasis, and revered seers have taken a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam, the sacred confluence of Ganga, Yamuna, and the mystical Saraswati.
The Uttar Pradesh government anticipates the number of participants to cross the 100 million mark by the end of the day. As of now, over 16.98 lakh devotees have bathed in the holy waters. Officials project that more than 45 crore people will attend the event this year.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Takes a Holy Dip
On Wednesday, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, accompanied by several ministers of his cabinet, took a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam during the Maha Kumbh.
Preparations for Mauni Amavasya
Authorities are gearing up for the upcoming Mauni Amavasya on January 29, a significant day in the festival, with preparations underway to manage the anticipated surge in devotees.
The Maha Kumbh Mela, a symbol of faith and spirituality, continues to unite millions from around the world, showcasing the enduring power of peace and devotion.