R. C. Ganjoo
Swami Gyaneshwar Puri, Mahamandaleshwar, Mahanirvani Akhara
Every 3-4 years, the largest spiritual gathering on the planet, the Kumbh Mela, takes place in various locations across India. In 2025, this grand event was held in Prayagraj, drawing mahamandaleshwars, sadhus, saints, sanyasis from diverse lineages and traditions.
I was thrilled to attend the Kumbh Mela, not only to take a ritual bath in the Sangam but also, more importantly, to connect with these holy figures and learn from their wisdom.
As a Mahamandaleshwar of Mahanirvani Akhara, I represented our lineage and Gurudev Vishwaguru Mahamandaleshwar Paramhans Swami Maheshwaranda Ji, who was in Australia at the time and unable to attend. With the help of my fellow guru brothers and sanyasis, we organized a camp for a small group of 25 foreigners who accompanied me. We arrived at the Kumbh Mela on the morning of January 7th. We embarked on a 14-hour journey by car to Prayagraj, a 12-hour drive, followed by a 2-hour trip to the camp.
When we arrived we saw that many camps were still under construction; people were busy setting up. Each day brought new encounters, and I met many people, including several mahamadaleshwars, and acharyas. We visited the Sangam almost every day, and all the foreigners in our group were treated with great hospitality.
The atmosphere was vibrant, peaceful, and problem-free. The highlight was the procession on the 14th. We rode chariots for about an hour before taking a dip in the beautiful cold waters of Sangam. Afterwards, a bhandara was hosted by Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Rajguru Swami Vishokanand Bharti Ji Maharaj. Afte the bhandara we departed for Jaipur.
The seven days seemed to fly by. The atmosphere was truly beautiful and vibrant. We met numerous people, had many enriching discussions, and everyone felt invigorated, wishing they could have stayed longer. (As narrated to EW Representative R. C. Ganjoo)
