In a dramatic turn at the ongoing Prayagraj Magh Mela, Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand quits Magh Mela without taking the revered Sangam holy dip. The spiritual leader departed this morning with a heavy heart, citing deep pain from recent clashes and political jabs.
The Painful Exit: What Shankaracharya Said
Addressing devotees outside his camp, Swami Avimukteshwaranand said, "My mind is extremely distressed. I'm leaving this sacred place without bathing at Sangam—something I never imagined." He rejected the administration's last-minute offer for a respectful palanquin ride to the Sangam holy dip, escorted by officials. "When the heart is filled with grief and anger, even sacred waters cannot bring peace," he added.
His vanity van rolled out at 8 AM toward Kashi after morning rituals. By noon, workers dismantled the camp, loading belongings onto vehicles.
Flashback: The Spark at Prayagraj Magh Mela
Tensions boiled over on January 18 during the Prayagraj Magh Mela. As the Shankaracharya headed for the Sangam holy dip, police allegedly halted his palanquin. Devotees protested, leading to scuffles—claims include pushing and hair-dragging.
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Shankaracharya staged an 11-day sit-in outside his camp.
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Administration sent two notices demanding proof of his title; he replied formally.
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Yesterday, they proposed a dignified bath, but he declined.
Political Firestorm Involves Yogi Adityanath
The row escalated politically. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath referenced "Kalanemi"—seen as a dig at Avimukteshwaranand—without naming him. The seer hit back, likening Yogi to Kalanemi and Aurangzeb, fueling a religious controversy with political undertones.
This matters now amid Prayagraj Magh Mela's peak, drawing lakhs for purification dips. Experts like religious analyst Pt. Ramakant Dubey note: "Such standoffs test faith in Sanatan traditions and state-religion balance. Devotees feel betrayed when rituals clash with admin hurdles."
Why It Resonates in Culture and Faith
In Uttar Pradesh's spiritual heartland, this highlights growing friction between religious leaders and governance. Actionable takeaway for pilgrims: Verify camp permissions early; respect security protocols to avoid disruptions. For authorities, clearer dialogue could prevent future holy dips from turning sour.
