Maha Kumbh: Akshaya Patra and ISKCON to Provide Free Meals Through Bhandaras

As the Maha Kumbh approaches, numerous organisations are preparing to offer free meals to millions of devotees. These meals, known as bhandaras, will be available throughout the fairgrounds. Some groups have already begun their services, while others will start soon. This initiative is seen as an act of religious merit by the participating organisations.

Vijay Vishwas Pant, Commissioner of Prayagraj Division, anticipates that 8,000 to 10,000 organisations will participate in the Maha Kumbh. Among them, hundreds will provide free meals through bhandaras and langars. Prominent groups like Akshaya Patra, ISKCON, and Om Namah Shivaya are known for feeding large numbers of devotees during this event.

Community Feasts and Government Support

The mela administration has arranged for government ration shops to supply food at subsidised rates for pilgrims. Vivek Chaturvedi, Additional District Magistrate Kumbh, emphasised the importance of bathing and donations during events like Kumbh, Maha Kumbh, and Magh Mela in Prayagraj. He noted that hundreds of organisations come forward to arrange free meals for millions of pilgrims during these times.

These community feasts extend beyond the mela grounds to major intersections and alleys in the city. Estimating their exact numbers is challenging as many local residents also participate actively. Chaturvedi highlighted that both organisations and individuals contribute significantly to these efforts.

Organisations and Their Initiatives

The Akhil Bharatiya Panchterah Tyagi Santosh Das Ji Maharaj has been serving meals at a bhandara near the Digambar Akhara since December 1. Mahant Gopal Das stated, "From now until the end of the Mahakumbh, everyone visiting us will be served free meals." Similarly, Juna Akhara's food service in Sector 20 will commence on December 25.

Shri Hinglaj Maths Mritunjay Puri Maharaj mentioned that their bhandara would operate daily from 8 am to 2 pm and 4 pm to 8 pm. The national secretary of Awahan Akhara, Mahant Satyagiri, confirmed that their bhandara is already operational and will continue throughout the Mahakumbh. "All pilgrims here will receive free and fulfilling meals," he assured.

24-Hour Bhandaras

Other organisations like Raghuwansh Seva Sankalp Trust from Ayodhya are also setting up bhandaras. Swami Dilip Das Tyagi Maharaj of Ram Vaidehi Temple stated, "Our bhandara will operate 24 hours a day, as per divine will." The Maa Rewa Foundation from Khargone, Madhya Pradesh, is planning a 24-hour bhandara named Ananya Anna Kshetra to serve prasad throughout the 45-day event.

This massive effort reflects the dedication of various groups to ensure that all pilgrims receive nourishing meals during their spiritual journey at the Maha Kumbh. The collaboration between government support and community initiatives highlights the significance of this event in fostering unity and service among participants.