Harsha Richhariya, the Viral Influencer, Draws Attention as ‘Most Beautiful’ Sadhvi at Kumbh 2025

Mahakumbh 2025: The 2025 Mahakumbh has been buzzing on social media, particularly over the story of Harsha Richhariya, a woman who left her high-paying job to embrace spirituality. The video featuring Richhariya quickly went viral, but not without controversy.

In the video, Harsha Richhariya, who claims to have been living as a Sadhvi for two years, shared her spiritual journey. The interview gained attention, with many social media users praising her decision to choose spirituality and referring to her as the "most beautiful" Sadhvi at the Mahakumbh.

During the interview, Richhariya, seated in a chariot, responded to a YouTuber's question about her beauty and the reason she chose a spiritual path. "You're so beautiful, have you never felt like leaving the life of a Sadhvi?" the interviewer asked. Richhariya responded, "I left what I wanted to do and opted for this." She further explained that she embraced the Sadhvi life for peace and inner calm.

However, the viral video soon sparked debate as netizens dug up past photos of Harsha in Western attire, from before her spiritual journey. Many criticized her, calling her a "fake" Sadhvi and pointing out her heavy makeup at the Mahakumbh, which they felt contradicted her supposed renunciation.

"What's the need for all this glamour and makeup if she's truly chosen the Sadhvi path?" one user questioned. Another social media user remarked, "Not everyone who wears Bhagwa is a Sadhvi. Harsha Richhariya is a professional model and anchor, not a real Sadhvi."

To date, Harsha Richhariya has not commented on the backlash.