Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh): The Peshwai of Anand Akhada kicked off the grand ‘Sobha Yatra’ on Monday, marking the beginning of their participation in the Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj. The grand procession started from the Anand Akhara premises near Baghambari Math, with thousands of saints and sadhus taking part, accompanied by drums, trumpets, and riding on elephants, horses, and chariots.
The procession made its way through Triveni Marg and reached the Mela grounds, where the administration and security officials ensured a safe and smooth journey for the participants.
Deputy Inspector General of Police Vaibhav Krishna spoke about the significance of the event, stating, “As you can see, Anand Akhada is leading the ‘Sobha Yatra’ with complete divinity and grandeur. The procession passed through Triveni Marg to reach the premises, and for their safety, the police have been vigilant. We have also welcomed the saints with warmth.”
The saints were greeted with an unprecedented welcome by the devotees and security personnel. One seer expressed satisfaction with the arrangements, saying, “The administration has made very good arrangements.” Another added, “The administration behaves with the respect of a ruler. The saints are now sitting on the throne, and that is why we are receiving such a warm welcome.”
Anand Akhada, which worships Suryanarayana (the Sun God) as their presiding deity, is also known for establishing educational institutions that teach Hindu scriptures, yoga, meditation, and martial arts.
Acharya Mandleswar Balkanand Ji Maharaj of Anand Akhada announced that seers associated with the Akhada from around the world would settle in the Mela tents starting Monday. He added, “Our deity, the Sun God, will be providing energy and spiritual growth to everyone in the Mela.”
As the Mahakumbh Mela approaches, Prayagraj is filled with an atmosphere of spiritual fervor and devotion. Several prominent akhadas, including Niranjani Akhada, Ahwan Akhada, Atal Akhara, Mahanirvani Akhara, Niranjani Akhada, and the largest Juna Akhada, have already arrived at the Mela site.
The Mahakumbh Mela, celebrated once every 12 years, is expected to attract over 45 crore devotees. Pilgrims will gather at the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers, to take a holy dip, believed to absolve sins and grant moksha (liberation).
The event will conclude on February 26, with the main bathing rituals (Shahi Snan) scheduled for January 14 (Makar Sankranti), January 29 (Mauni Amavasya), and February 3 (Basant Panchami).