Maha Kumbh strengthened spirit of unity: PM

New Delhi, Mar 18: Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday addressed the Lok Sabha on the successful conclusion of the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. He extended his heartfelt salutations to the countless citizens of the nation, whose efforts ensured the grand success of the Mahakumbh. Highlighting the collective contributions of various individuals and groups in making the Mahakumbh a success, he acknowledged and appreciated the efforts of the government, society, and all dedicated workers involved. Shri Modi expressed his gratitude to devotees from across the country, with special mention of the people of Uttar Pradesh and, in particular, the citizens of Prayagraj, for their invaluable support and participation.
Underlining the immense efforts required for the grand organization of the Mahakumbh, comparing it to the legendary Bhagirath’s endeavor to bring the Ganga to Earth, Shri Modi mentioned about his emphasis on the importance of “Sabka Prayas” during his address from the Red Fort. He noted that the Mahakumbh showcased India’s grandeur to the world. “Mahakumbh is a manifestation of the collective resolve, devotion, and dedication of the people, inspired by their unwavering faith”, he added.
The Prime Minister remarked on the profound awakening of national consciousness witnessed during the Mahakumbh, highlighting how this consciousness propels the nation towards new resolutions and inspires their fulfillment. He emphasized that the Mahakumbh effectively addressed doubts and apprehensions held by some regarding the nation’s capabilities.
Highlighting the transformative journey of the nation, drawing a parallel between the Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya last year and the Mahakumbh this year, Shri Modi remarked that these events reinforce the nation’s readiness for the next millennium. He emphasized that the collective consciousness of the nation reflects its immense potential. He noted that pivotal moments in a nation’s history, much like in human history, serve as examples for generations to come. Shri Modi reflected on India’s historical milestones that awakened the nation and provided new direction, citing the spiritual resurgence during the Swadeshi movement, Swami Vivekananda’s iconic speech in Chicago, and key moments in India’s freedom struggle, such as the 1857 uprising, Bhagat Singh’s martyrdom, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s “Delhi Chalo” call, and Mahatma Gandhi’s Dandi March. “Prayagraj Mahakumbh is a similarly significant milestone, symbolizing the awakened spirit of the nation”, he added.
Underscoring the vibrant enthusiasm witnessed during the Mahakumbh in India, which lasted for nearly one and a half months, the Prime Minister highlighted how crores of devotees, rising above concerns of convenience or inconvenience, participated with unwavering faith, showcasing the nation’s immense strength. Citing his recent visit to Mauritius, where he carried sacred water from Triveni, Prayagraj, collected during the Mahakumbh, Prime Minister mentioned the profound atmosphere of devotion and celebration when the holy water was offered at Mauritius’ Ganga Talao. He emphasized that this reflects the growing spirit of embracing, celebrating, and preserving India’s traditions, culture, and values.
Modi remarked on the seamless continuation of traditions across generations, highlighting how the modern youth of India have actively participated in the Mahakumbh and other festivals with deep devotion. He emphasized that today’s youth are embracing their traditions, faith, and beliefs with pride, reflecting a strong connection to India’s cultural heritage.
“When a society takes pride in its heritage, it creates grand and inspiring moments, as witnessed during the Mahakumbh”, said Modi, emphasising that such pride fosters unity and strengthens the confidence to achieve significant national goals. He highlighted that the connection to traditions, faith, and heritage is a valuable asset for contemporary India, reflecting the nation’s collective strength and cultural richness.
Stressing that the Mahakumbh has yielded many invaluable outcomes, with the spirit of unity being its most sacred offering, the Prime Minister highlighted how people from every region and corner of the country came together in Prayagraj, setting aside individual egos and embracing the collective spirit of “we” over “I.” He emphasized that individuals from various states became part of the sacred Triveni, strengthening the sense of nationalism and unity. He noted that when people speaking different languages and dialects chanted “Har Har Gange” at the Sangam, it reflected the essence of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat” and enhanced the spirit of oneness.
Modi observed that the Mahakumbh demonstrated the absence of discrimination between the small and the great, showcasing India’s immense strength. He remarked that the inherent unity within the nation is so profound that it overcomes all divisive efforts. He highlighted that this unity is a great fortune for Indians and a significant strength in a world facing fragmentation. He reiterated that “unity in diversity” is India’s hallmark, a sentiment consistently felt and experienced, as exemplified by the grandeur of the Prayagraj Mahakumbh. He urged the nation to continue enriching this unique characteristic of unity in diversity.
Speaking about the numerous inspirations drawn from the Mahakumbh, Modi highlighted the vast network of rivers in the country, many of which are facing challenges. He stressed the need to expand the tradition of river festivals, inspired by the Mahakumbh, adding that such initiatives would help the current generation understand the importance of water, promote river cleanliness, and ensure the protection of rivers.
The Prime Minister concluded by expressing confidence that the inspirations drawn from the Mahakumbh will serve as a strong medium for achieving the nation’s resolutions. He appreciated every individual involved in organizing the Mahakumbh and extended his salutations to all devotees across the country and conveyed his best wishes on behalf of the House.