On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed that the successful organization of the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj embodies the essence of an ascending India. Modi spoke about the Mahakumbh during the ongoing Parliament budget session while addressing the Lok Sabha.
“I pay my respects to the countless citizens of the nation whose contributions led to this success,” Modi stated, emphasizing that the Prayagraj Mahakumbh symbolizes the spirit of a growing India.
The Mahakumbh 2025, the latest edition of the Kumbh Mela, a sacred Hindu pilgrimage festival that signifies a full revolution of Jupiter around the Sun, took place from January 13 to February 26, 2025, at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. The event was promoted as the world’s largest congregation, with over 660 million people participating in the sacred dip, as reported by the Chief Minister.
Below are some notable quotes from Modi’s address in the Lok Sabha
Diverse Manifestations of Amrit
“Numerous forms of ‘Amrit’ emerged from the Mahakumbh. The most sacred offering is the ‘Amrit’ of unity. The Mahakumbh has served as a platform uniting individuals from every corner of the nation. Putting aside individual egos, they have come together in the spirit of ‘Vayam’—not ‘I,’ but ‘We’—in Prayagraj,” Modi articulated.
While PM Modi commended the Mahakumbh’s success, the Yogi Adityanath-led government in Uttar Pradesh faced backlash following an incident on January 29 that resulted in approximately 30 fatalities and numerous injuries.
Feeling of Unity
On Tuesday, Modi noted that people from various states participated as one in the sacred Triveni during the festival. “When millions from diverse regions come together, they enhance the sense of national identity. When individuals speaking different languages chant ‘Har Har Gange’ along the banks of the Sangam, it symbolizes ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’ and fosters a deeper sense of unity,” he remarked.
Various forms of ‘Amrit’ have emerged from the Mahakumbh. The ‘Amrit’ of unity remains its most revered contribution.
Modi emphasized how he brought sacred elements during his visit last week, stating, “This excitement was not confined to a single location. While in Mauritius, I carried the sacred water from Maha Kumbh. The atmosphere of devotion and celebration there, when this holy water was offered at Mauritius’ Ganga Talab, was truly extraordinary.”
On March 17, Modi presented the US Director of National Intelligence with ‘Gangajal’ from the Mahakumbh.
The Grandeur of India through Mahakumbh
The entire world witnessed India’s magnificence during the Mahakumbh, stated the prime minister. “A national awakening shone through the Maha Kumbh, which would motivate new accomplishments… This also served as a powerful response to those who question our capabilities,” he added.
Modi remarked that the Kumbh has been a source of inspiration in many respects. “Our nation possesses numerous rivers, both small and large, many of which are currently facing challenges. Inspired by the Kumbh, we must broaden the tradition of river festivals. We should seriously consider this, as it will help the current generation appreciate the value of water. Such initiatives will bolster efforts to cleanse and safeguard our rivers,” he commented.