Hindu Seers Urge UP Govt To Deploy Only 'Sanatani' Officials To Manage Mahakumbh In Prayagraj

Hindu seers have called for the exclusive deployment of 'sanatani' (followers of Hinduism) officials at the 2025 'Mahakumbh', a major religious pilgrimage held at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers in Prayagraj.

The demand was put forth by the All India Akhara Parishad (AIAP), the apex body representing 13 'Akharas', on Saturday.

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The 'Akharas' were established by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century to unite sages and seers and safeguard the 'sanatan' way of life, reported Deccan Herald.

"We want the deployment of only sanatani officers in the Kumbh Mela... no non-sanatani officer should be allowed in the Mela area," AIAP general secretary and patron of the 'Juna Akhara', Mahant Hari Giri, stated following a meeting of the Parishad.

He also insisted that entry to the Mela area should be permitted only after verifying identity cards, ensuring that only 'sanatani' individuals gain access.

The AIAP further demanded a ban on 'non-sanatani' food stalls at the Kumbh Mela, advocating for a prohibition on the sale of alcohol and meat in the surrounding areas.

Previously, the AIAP had suggested changing terms such as 'Shahi Snan' (royal bath), which they described as an Urdu term, to 'Rajasi Snan'.

"These terms have been in use since the Mughal period... they need to be changed now," Mahant Hari Giri added.

The 'Shahi Snan' is a key event at the Kumbh, where thousands of sages and seers from various 'akharas' bathe in the Sangam waters.

The Mahant mentioned that a meeting of the AIAP would take place after the Diwali festival, where a proposal on this matter would be adopted and sent to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

The Kumbh Mela will commence in Prayagraj on January 14 and conclude on February 26. Millions of devotees from across the country and abroad are expected to gather at the Sangam to take a holy dip.