Prayed for those who got injured: Swami Chidanand Saraswati on Maha Kumbh incident

A minor stampede happened during the Maha Kumbh Mela at Prayagraj, causing some injuries and prompting immediate response from spiritual leaders. Swami Chidanand Saraswati and other prominent spiritual figures quickly cancelled their programs and offered prayers for the injured. The incident occurred during the significant Mauni Amavasya day, which traditionally attracts millions of pilgrims. Top government officials, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, have been monitoring the situation and offering support.

"Everybody's well-being and service shall be everyone's priority right now." - Swami Chidanand Saraswati

by ANI January 29, 2025 122 views

Prayagraj, January 29: Parmarth Niketan Ashram President Swami Chidanand Saraswati on Wednesday said that prayers were held for those injured in the recent stampede like situation at the Maha Kumbh Mela.

Key Points

1. Stampede-like situation occurred at Mauni Amavasya during Kumbh Mela

2. Spiritual leaders cancelled programs and offered prayers

3. Devotees advised to take precautions at Ganga Ghats

4. Authorities monitoring the incident closely

He also informed that he has cancelled all his programs and is heading to the Sangam to meet people and the victims.

Speaking to ANI, Swami Chidanand Saraswati said, "As soon as I got to know about the stampede, we informed everyone at our camp that we would not do snan together today. Everyone is asked to take a dip at their nearest Ganga Ghat. We have cancelled 'samoohik snan'. Everybody's well-being and service shall be everyone's priority right now. We have prayed for those who got injured in the incident. We have cancelled all our programs and are heading to the Sangam to meet people and the victims."

Earlier today, Yoga exponent Baba Ramdev led a symbolic prayer and 'snan' ritual for the recovery of those injured in the incident and offered his prayers and good wishes for the affected individuals.

Speaking to ANI, Ramdev said, "We have taken a holy dip today keeping the injured persons in our prayers and wishing for their speedy recovery. We did a symbolic 'snan' today and prayed for the well-being of the people."

Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Swami Avdheshanand Giri Maharaj of Juna Akhara speaking to ANI said, "Today's snan was for the welfare of the world. I express my condolence for the accident which has occurred. I hope the families of the injured persons find strength. Due to this, we have postponed our Shobha Yatra today."

A stampede-like situation arose at the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj in the early hours of Wednesday, resulting in several injuries. This incident occurred as millions of devotees gathered at the confluence of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers to take a holy dip on the auspicious occasion of Mauni Amavasya, which is also the day of the Second Shahi Snan.

Speaking to media, Special Executive Officer Akanksha Rana said, "On the Sangam routes, a stampede-like situation arose after some barriers broke. Some people have been injured. They are under treatment. It is not a serious situation."

Mauni Amavasya is considered one of the most significant days of the Mahakumbh Mela, attracting a massive influx of pilgrims from across the country.

Following the incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah reached out to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, assuring him of full support from the Centre.

Mauni Amavasya is expected to draw a crowd of 80-100 million people. Other significant days during the Mahakumbh include February 3 (Basant Panchami), February 12 (Maghi Purnima), and February 26 (Maha Shivaratri).