Mahakumbh Mela 2025: ID Proofs Mandatory for Sadhus, Hindi Terms to Replace Urdu Words and Restrictions on Food Stalls for ‘Non-Sanatanis’
Preparations for the Mahakumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj are underway, with the Akhil Bhartiya Akhara Parishad (ABAP) introducing new rules for participating sadhus and babas.
Prayagraj, October 16: Preparations for the Mahakumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj are underway, with the Akhil Bhartiya Akhara Parishad (ABAP) introducing new rules for participating sadhus and babas, according to reports. ABAP, the governing body for all 13 Akharas, has mandated that all sadhus provide valid ID proof, such as Aadhaar or Voter ID cards, to enter the Mahakumbh Mela grounds. This move aims to prevent the entry of fake babas and ensure the authenticity of participants.
The Mahakumbh is scheduled to take place in Prayagraj on January 13, 2025. More than 40 crore devotees are expected to arrive during the Mahakumbh. During the Kumbh and the Mahakumbhs, the main attraction are the revered seers of the Akharas. Maha Kumbh 2025: Prayagraj Gears Up for Grand Transformation, Here’s What Yogi Adityanath Government Planning for City.
Ban on Urdu Words
A significant change for the Mahakumbh Mela 2025 is the renaming of Urdu words traditionally used during the event. Terms like “Shahi” and “Peshwai” will be replaced with words rooted in Sanatan Dharma. Even “Shahi Snan” (Royal Bath), a key ritual, will receive a Sanatani name. This decision reflects a move to reinforce Sanatan traditions while leaving behind terms associated with non-Hindu influences. Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: No Meat, Liquor Within Maha Kumbh Periphery, Says Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath.
No Food Stalls for Non-Sanatanis
ABAP has also introduced a rule barring non-Sanatanis from setting up food stalls during the Mela. This decision stems from past incidents of food tampering, including reports of unholy practices such as spitting in food. Only Hindus who follow Sanatan Dharma will be permitted to operate food and beverage stalls, aiming to maintain the sanctity of the event.
ID Proof For Sadhus
At a meeting chaired by ABAP President Mahant Ravindra Puri, he called upon the need for cooperation with local authorities to ensure the safety of participants. He also warned against the threat posed by fake sadhus, citing a recent tragedy in Hathras where a stampede during a “satsang” led by self-styled sadhu Suraj Pal claimed 121 lives.
Appeal to Devotees
ABAP has urged devotees to support vendors who display images of Hindu deities and verify the owner’s details before making purchases. The organisation also reinforced the ban on meat and liquor around the Mahakumbh Mela grounds.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 16, 2024 11:47 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).