Gudhi Padwa: A Celebration of Tradition, Joy, and Togetherness at Maharashtra Sadan

Gudhi Padwa: A Celebration of Tradition, Joy, and Togetherness at Maharashtra Sadan
It has been a month since I joined Maharashtra Sadan as the Resident Commissioner of Government of Maharashtra in Delhi. I had heard that festivals are celebrated in a special way at Sadan, so I was excited and looked forward to the fast approaching Gudhi Padwa. And it became a memorable celebration indeed.
The morning sun bathed old Maharashtra Sadan in golden hues and the air was abuzz with excitement and devotion. It was Gudhi Padwa, the festival of new beginnings, a day that carried the promise of prosperity and joy. This year was extra special as the Gudhi was to be hoisted not just at the old Maharashtra Sadan, but for the very first time at the new Sadan as well.
As we gathered in the courtyard of the Old Sadan, the Gudhi, a magnificent sight, stood tall—draped in shimmering silk, adorned with neem leaves, sugar garlands, and crowned with an inverted Kalash. This was no ordinary flag; it was a symbol of victory, resilience, and hope. The vibrant colors of the silk cloth fluttered in the gentle breeze, whispering tales of Maharashtra’s glorious past, while the inverted Kalash on top  radiated divine blessings.
Legend has it that on this very day, Lord Brahma created the universe, marking the dawn of time itself. It is also believed to commemorate the victorious return of King Shalivahana, a symbol of strength and courage. The festival is more than just a celebration, it is a reminder to embrace new beginnings, to rise after every fall and to march forward with unwavering faith.
A cherished tradition of the day is the consumption of Kadu Limba (Neem leaves) mixed with jaggery.  It is a perfect metaphor for life being bitter-sweet and accepting challenges with grace, knowing that sweetness always follows bitterness. The medicinal properties of neem also made it a time-honoured practice, ensuring health and well-being as the seasons changed.
For years, the Gudhi had only been hoisted at the old Maharashtra Sadan. But this year, in a moment of pride and continuity, we extended this age-old tradition to the new Sadan.

Here too, the Gudhi, adorned with bright yellow silk, sugar garlands, and neem leaves, swayed proudly in the breeze, blessing us with positivity for the year ahead.

The festivities were not just about rituals but also about camaraderie.
As the Gudhi was raised and hoisted next to the majestic statue of the revered Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the New Maharashtra Sadan cheers filled the air, blending with the soulful prayers for well being and prosperity. 

Officers, seniors, friends, and staff stood together, their faces lit with the joy of shared culture and community.
What made the celebration even more special was the presence of family, our extended support system, without whom these moments would not be complete. Watching everyone, dressed in their festive best, exchanging heartfelt wishes, and embracing the spirit of the occasion, made it clear that festivals are truly about togetherness.
The delicious food comprising of hot Puran Polis with saajuk toop, (ghee ), crispy Bhajis, delicious Batata Wadas, Sambhar Wadas, Jalebis and the fragrant Masale Bhaat  with Kadhi added to our joy. Each bite felt like home, comforting, familiar and full of love. The flavours carried the essence of tradition, reminding us that food is more than just sustenance, it is a celebration in itself.
As the day came to an end, the warmth of the festivities lingered. This was more than just an event; it was a homecoming, a moment to pause, reflect, and celebrate our roots. The joy of celebrating with colleagues, staff, seniors, and family made the occasion all the more special. The laughter, the shared meals and the collective prayers made it a memory to be cherished for years to come.
As we step into the new Marathi Samvat, let’s carry forward the spirit of Gudhi Padwa, embracing new beginnings with optimism, standing tall in the face of challenges and cherishing the traditions that bind us together.

Empowering Rural Maharashtra: My Journey with the Maharashtra State Khadi and Village Industries Board

Empowering Rural Maharashtra: My Journey with the Maharashtra State Khadi and Village Industries Board


The Maharashtra State Khadi and Village Industries Board (MSKVIB) is a pivotal organization dedicated to promoting Khadi, small-scale industries, Beekeeping and sustainable rural livelihoods across Maharashtra. Established to empower artisans, entrepreneurs, and traditional craftspeople, the board plays a crucial role in enhancing socio-economic development in rural areas.
Serving as the Chief Executive Officer of the Maharashtra State Khadi and Village Industries Board was a deeply fulfilling chapter in my professional journey. During my tenure, I had the opportunity to actively promote Khadi, support small-scale industries, and foster the growth of beekeeping, facilitate easy carpentry for making bee-boxes,  propogate quality Madhuban Honey in the market, an experience that was both challenging and fulfilling.
The Maharashtra State Khadi and Village Industries Board has been a pillar of support for more than 10,000 small-scale units across the state. Through financial assistance, skill development, and guidance, these enterprises were given the foundation to set up units and thrive under  Prime Minister's Employment Generation Programme PMEGP and
Chief Minister's Employment Generation Programme CMEGP.
While some units flourished, others face struggle often due to limited marketing support or a lack of resources yet MSMEs are effectively contributing  about 25%  to the state's GDP. 
Khadi, our national fabric, which holds immense cultural and historical significance is the soul of the Board. Yet it's legacy faces numerous challenges today.
This is mainly because Khadi is looked at as a  rough piece of cloth worn by leaders. People and specially youth are still unaware of the new varieties and possibilities with Khadi. A visit to the Khadi Gramodyog Centre at Connaught Place in Delhi will surprise you with it's variety.
Our Honourable Prime Minister has been the best ambassador with his slogan, Khadi for Nation, Khadi for Fashion. There is therefore a great need to present Khadi in a unique way. One of the easiest ways of incorporating the use of Khadi in our lives is by using products of daily use like towels, kerchiefs, bed sheets, night suits etc made of khadi.
Another reason why Khadi is langusihing is because it has to be hand woven and hand spun. This is not only time consuming but is also a costly process. Being manual, the quantity of cloth produced is not proportional to the effort put in and this affects the costing of the product and labour charges.  Khadi can therefore flourish only  when subsidies are effective. States like Gujarat, Tamilnadu and Rajasthan are giving good subsidies to Khadi in their states and so  it is still flourishing there. The khadi units in Maharashtra have dwindled due to the stoppage of subsidies.  

Another aspect is the lack of markets for the products being manufactured. Recognizing this, I worked tirelessly to rejuvenate Khadi’s appeal — organizing exhibitions, engaging with artisans, and creating new platforms to connect producers with consumers. The Khadi Kala Srishti Mela remains one of the most memorable milestones from my tenure, a grand showcase of Maharashtra’s finest Khadi artisans and their craftsmanship at BKC, the central business district of Maharashtra. 
One of the most enriching aspects of my role was championing beekeeping, a sector that holds immense potential for enhancing both agriculture and rural incomes. Beekeeping is not just about honey; it plays a vital role in improving crop yields through pollination. For rural families, particularly women, it offers a valuable source of supplementary income.
The Directorate of Beekeeping at Mahabaleshwar is a true gem — a beautiful learning space where visitors can witness the magic of honey production firsthand. It’s a place where the story of bees, flowers, and golden nectar comes alive, and I encourage everyone to visit and experience it.  Among its key initiatives the Directorate offers training programs on advanced beekeeping techniques, distributes modern beekeeping equipment at concessional rates and  facilitates the marketing of pure honey under recognized labels through a buy back scheme. Establishing of Honey Villages, 'Madhacha Gaav' was another beautiful concept wherein the whole village is trained and funded to undertake beekeeping activities. After setting up 3 villages at Manghar, Patgaon and Gholvad,  the Board has planned setting up of 16 more. 
With this in mind, I worked passionately to promote beekeeping initiatives, emphasizing the importance of pure, high-quality honey. The Madhuban Honey brand became a symbol of this effort, a testament to our commitment to quality and authenticity. Organizing the Honey Festival was a highlight, where consumers could directly connect with beekeepers and experience the richness of pure honey. Inviting super chef Vishnu Manohar to share recipes with honey was an added attraction. 
Convergence of government schemes is the new mantra so with the support of BARTI, Babasaheb Ambedkar Research and Training Institute in Pune more than thousand women were trained in entrepreneurship and  set up small business. Organisations like KVIC,  MSSIDC, SIDBI, Women and Child Development Department, Skill Development Department have always encouraged our units.
My year-long journey with the Board was full of promise, challenges, and meaningful impact.The journey doesn’t end here for it’s a path of sustained efforts, collective support, and an unwavering belief in the potential of rural entrepreneurship.
While the larger efforts through events like the Khadi Kala Srishti Mela and the Honey Festival left a significant mark, I continue to carry my passion for these causes forward in my everyday life. A small yet heartfelt gesture I have adopted is gifting honey instead of bouquets,  a simple act that reflects my belief in promoting pure honey and supporting the hardworking beekeepers behind it.
As we celebrate the Foundation Day of the Maharashtra State Khadi and Village Industries Board, I reflect on the unwavering dedication of artisans, beekeepers, and entrepreneurs who drive this mission forward. Their work not only preserves tradition but also empowers countless families across Maharashtra. With continued efforts, I believe Khadi can regain its rightful place in every Indian wardrobe, and honey, nature’s superfood can become a staple in households, celebrated for its purity and health benefits.

Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat: Celebrating Unity in Diversity...

Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat: Celebrating Unity in Diversity...

India's rich cultural heritage is a vibrant blend of traditions, folk lore and lively legends. The recent cultural exchange program, " Lok Sanskruticha Lok Ursav " organised by the Cultural Affairs Department, Government of Maharashtra, and Maharashtra Information Centre  under the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat initiative brought this beautifully to life.
Hosted at the Maharashtra Sadan in New Delhi, the event showcased the cultural richness of Maharashtra and Odisha, two states with distinct identities yet deeply connected by shared traditions and values.
The evening unfolded with Odisha’s mesmerizing Baja Saala performance. This captivating dance, traditionally performed during weddings in Kalahandi, is a vibrant expression of love and desire. As energetic drummers presented a  powerful rhythm, dancers adorned in colourful costumes performed with precision and grace. The synchronized beats and expressive footwork left the audience spellbound.
Following this was Maharashtra’s powerful Dhol Nach Bohara dance from the tribal heartland of Mokhada in Palghar district. The dancers synchronized movements, paired with the pulsating beats of the dhol, showcased the resilience and strength of Maharashtra's tribal communities. The 'ghungroos' or metallic bells on their feet chimed in unison sprinkling joy. Dressed in traditional attire, the performers moved in perfect harmony, bringing their stories to life with unwavering energy.
The Baja Saala dance reflects  Odisha’s vibrant marital traditions, where instrumentalists fill pre-wedding gatherings with rhythmic beats. The performance, which blends love, attraction, and youthful energy, becomes an unforgettable part of the celebration. The dancers often lose track of time when they get engrossed in this energetic dance form.
Similarly, Maharashtra’s Dhol Nach Bohara performance from Mokhada’s tribal belt captured the spirit of community and devotion. The dancers, moving in circular formations to the deep beats of the dhol, payed homage to nature including the Sun God,  Holy cows, Mother earth and other deities.  Through their songs and movements, they narrated tales of cattle, tigers, and mountains — echoing their respect for Mother Earth. Maintaining the fast beat and tempo they indulged in making beautiful human pyramids saluting mother earth and Devi Shakti which  displayed their strength, precison and deftness.
Despite their distinct customs, Maharashtra and Odisha share many cultural similarities. Be it the intricate textiles like Paithani and Himroo from Maharashtra or the iconic Sambalpuri weaves from Odisha — each fabric tells a story of craftsmanship passed down through generations. Even their cuisines find common ground with staple food like fish and rice.
On a spiritual level, Maharashtra’s devotion to Shri Vithoba of Pandharpur and Odisha’s reverence for Shri Jagannath from Puri reflect profound traditions of faith, community, and cultural pride — reinforcing that the heart of Indian culture beats with unity.
Maharashtra’s spirited  dance from Mokhada had participants, ranging from young children to elderly villagers, showcased how tradition bridges generations. Their infectious energy was a reminder that cultural heritage thrives when passed down with pride and love.
But the true highlight was an electrifying ‘Tiger’ performance. Two dynamic dancers captivated the audience with their raw energy, embodying the very spirit of celebration and togetherness.
This unforgettable event highlighted the true essence of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat — a vision where cultural exchanges foster understanding, empathy, and pride in our shared heritage. By immersing ourselves in each other's traditions, we celebrate the diversity that makes India truly extraordinary.
As Maharashtra and Odisha danced, drummed, and dined together, they reminded us that while our cultures may differ, the universal spirit of joy, connection, and creativity unites us all.

R. Vimala, IAS

Compassionate Bureaucrat & PhD Scholar at IIT Bombay 

A Flight Interrupted: A Glimpse into Life’s Unpredictable Moments

A Flight Interrupted: A Glimpse into Life’s Unpredictable Moments 

Traveling for work or leisure is always a unique  experience often filled with some anticipation and a sense of adventure. At times on a journey in a train or plane we suddenly face  some moments that remind us of the unpredictability of life. 

Recently, I found myself in one of those unforeseen circumstances when an emergency forced a fellow passenger to deplane just before takeoff. As the plane momentarily paused and brought us back to the parking bay from where we had taxied for take off, I was left me in a reflective mood.

Earlier when I reached the airport it was a typical day and I found it abuzz with people. Passengers were lost in their own thoughts about their travel  and the staff engrossed in their work. 

After checking in and completing my security check I trudged to the boarding gate which was at a distance. On boarding the aircraft,  I settled into my seat, engrossed in some work online when I found the aircraft which had announced take off was returning to its parking bay. Like me, all other passengers in the aircraft  were curious to know what happened when the announcement by our pilot came over the intercom. 

One of the passengers had requested to be deplaned due to an emergency.  

We were instructed to remain seated while the situation was assessed, and within  a few minutes an individual, in distress, was escorted off the plane. As the flight attendants worked swiftly and quietly, and the security completed their duty there was an atmosphere of reverence among the remaining passengers. The urgency of the situation was palpable, and yet, everyone seemed to understand the severity of what was happening.

The passenger who had requested to be deplaned was also overwhelmed by the situation since he too was unaware of the complexities of the process. He was apologetic too but apparently had a strong reason to deplane. Why would he put himself into such a situation otherwise? 

As our fellow traveler exited, I couldn’t help wondering about what emergency it could have been? Was it a sudden health issue, perhaps a reaction to something? Did he have his family waiting for him  on the other side? My mind was abuzz with thoughts and a deep concern. 

Also despite the tense situation, the other passengers remained calm and respectful. Apart from some whispered conversations, there was an understanding that we were all in this together, sharing a moment that transcended the typical chaos of airport life. Everyone must have  hoped for the best for this person, whose personal crisis had interrupted our journey.

In times of uncertainty, it is remarkable how quickly people can come together, even if just in spirit. While I struggled with my own worries about the delay for I would be losing time in joining the celebrations of an ensuing wedding in the family others would also be affected in some way yet we found comfort in our collective compassion.  

Often we are so consumed by our own schedules and ambitions that we can overlook the struggles of those around us. This incident was a stark reminder that we have to be conscious of ourselves as a part of shared humanity. 

As the minutes turned into what felt like hours, I took a moment to reflect on unpredictability of life, of travel, of flights getting delayed or baggage getting lost. We look back on those moments as  mere inconveniences. Yet, here was a sobering reminder that life can change in an instant for someone who was forced into deciding to deplane. 

Eventually, our flight resumed, and we took off into the star lit skies, but my thoughts lingered on that passenger. I hoped he received the help he needed, and I wished him the very best in whatever situation he would be facing. 

As I settled back into my seat, my mind drifted from the stress of travel to a greater appreciation for the journey and the stories that unfold along the way. Life maybe unpredictable but is certainly beautiful, and sometimes challenging, however the connections we share, even in silence matter the most.

Traveling by air, train or bus can often feel routine but experiences like this remind us that each journey holds the potential for stories that go beyond mere destinations. 

Next time you're caught in a delay or an unexpected change, take a moment to breathe, reflect, and connect with the shared human experience that surrounds you for ultimately we are not alone but a part of the whole.

R. Vimala, IAS, 

Compassionate Bureaucrat & 

PhD Scholar, IIT, Bombay 

Being a Woman: Gratitude, Reflection and Hope...

Being a Woman: Gratitude, Reflection and Hope...
God created us in pairs : man and woman; not as competitors, but as equals designed to complement each other. Together, we form a balance that drives growth, nurtures families and strengthens society. This harmony is crucial, yet history and social norms have often distorted this balance, creating inequalities that persist to this day.
On International women's Day, reflecting on my journey as a woman, personally, I find myself filled with gratitude. My family, my father & mother, siblings, husband, in-laws, even my son and my close friends have upheld the values of equality, not merely as a concept but as a way of life.
In my world, being a woman never meant being "less than". 

I have had the freedom to express myself, live  my dreams, and stand as an equal. I have been empowered to pursue my ambitions, voice my thoughts, and contribute meaningfully to society. I feel blessed and grateful for the same.
Yet this gratitude is accompanied by a heavy heart,  an awareness of the countless women who live a vastly different reality. For many, gender roles have turned into shackles, limiting their potential, suppressing their voices, and denying them the dignity they deserve. Their strength is overlooked, their rights compromised, and their existence reduced to societal expectations.
Many are deprived of education, financial independence and personal freedom. Some are made to feel inferior simply because of their gender. Worse still, many suffer the trauma of harassment, discrimination, or violence.
Even more disturbing is the threat that lurks in places where girls should feel safest, their homes, schools, and neighborhoods. Stories of young girls falling victim to heinous crimes like rape shake our collective conscience. We often hear about perverse minds reducing  women to mere objects of gratification, violating not only their bodies but also their spirits. Can we claim to have progressed as a society when such atrocities persist?
Yet, my reflections don’t stop there due to recent media reports that wrongdoing isn’t confined to one gender. While countless women are victims,  sporadic reports of men suffering abuse are also being heard. Violence and cruelty are not bound by gender; they are reflections of deeper social fractures that require urgent attention.
What, then, is the path forward?
For society to thrive, men and women must function as two well-oiled wheels of the same vehicle — distinct yet interconnected and working in harmony.
True progress will come when we stop looking at each other as adversaries or threats and instead embrace our roles as partners in building a better world. Respect must replace prejudice; compassion must overcome hostility; and equality must become the foundation of our homes, workplaces, and communities.
We must celebrate the strength of women and address their challenges.
Education can be the most useful key. By teaching our children, both  sons and daughters  the values of respect, empathy, and equality, we can dismantle outdated biases. By raising boys to respect women as partners, not inferiors, and by encouraging girls to embrace their strength and potential, we can build a better future.
Being a woman is a journey of strength, resilience, and hope. While I celebrate the blessings I have experienced, I remain mindful of those still fighting for their rightful place in society. My gratitude fuels my responsibility, to speak up, to support, and to strive for a world where no one feels less because of their gender. We have much to learn from nature or 'animals' where queen bees are rulers of the beehives or prides of lions are led by lionesses.
Change may be slow, but with collective effort, we can ensure that men and women — as equals — move forward together, creating a world where humanity thrives and makes "Vaisudaiva Kutumbakam" a reality...

R. Vimala, IAS

Compassionate Bureaucrat & PhD Scholar, IIT Bombay 

Kaikeyi: The Forsaken queen – A quest through Bharatanatyam

Kaikeyi: The Forsaken queen – A quest through Bharatanatyam 

It was a moment of both anticipation and excitement when I received my posting orders as the Resident Commissioner of Maharashtra in Delhi. Beyond the administrative responsibilities, I was eager to experience the city’s rich cultural life—its vibrant music, dance , theatre, art scene, historic monuments and intellectual discourses.
Just as I was imagining the possibilities, I received a call from Deepti Nambiar. Her niece, Mridula Nambiar was set to present a Bharatanatyam performance on the character of Kaikeyi at the India Habitat Centre on March 3, 2025. Without hesitation, I accepted the invitation, intrigued by the thought of witnessing a classical dance portrayal of one of mythology’s most misunderstood persona. 
Kaikeyi, in the Ramayan, has always been painted as a villain—the queen responsible for Rama’s exile. However, little has been explored about her inner turmoil, her role as a mother, and the betrayal by her brother which she faced helplesly. Mridula’s performance, titled "Kaikeyi: The Forsaken One," sought to challenge these long-held perceptions.
Through the grace of Bharatanatyam, the narrative traced Kaikeyi’s journey—from a spirited princess to a fierce warrior, from a beloved queen to an ostracized mother. The dance brought forth emotions often ignored,  her pain, her love for her son, the special love she had for Ram who was her favourite, and her regret. Was she truly selfish, or was she simply a mother fighting for her child in a world that favoured one over the other?
From her very first dance steps, Mridula captivated the audience. Her expressions—bhavas—breathed life into Kaikeyi. The transitions in her dance captured the grace of a princess, the power of a warrior, the cunning of Manthara, and the agony of a mother torn apart from her son. Each movement conveyed the depth of Kaikeyi’s emotions—her ambitions, her choices, and the weight of her actions.
A particularly haunting moment was when Kaikeyi, through abhinaya (expressive storytelling), questioned:
"A mother’s love should be equal, but what happens when a father chooses only one?"
In another poignant scene, she lamented:
"Doomed to be lost in the shadows of history… was I wrong as a mother?"
These words echoed through the auditorium, leaving the audience in reflective silence.
"Kaikeyi: The Forsaken One" was more than just a Bharatanatyam recital; it was a narrative re-evaluation. It urged the audience to look beyond the traditional black-and-white portrayal of characters and embrace the shades of grey that define human emotions. 

Mridula’s interpretation of Kaikeyi was neither a justification nor a condemnation—it was an invitation to understand.
Beyond doubts the performance was a testament to the power of classical dance as a medium of storytelling. It was a reminder that history is often written by victors, but art has the ability to give voice to those lost in its margins.
As the final sounds of the music faded into silence and Mridula took her bow, the standing ovation she received was not just for her impeccable dance but for her courage to tell a story often left untold.

Witnessing divinity : My experience at the Mahakumbh

Witnessing divinity : My experience at the Mahakumbh

So much has been written and spoken about 'The Mahakumbh' that I wondered how I could voice my thoughts about it. How does one truly capture the essence of an experience so deeply sacred yet so  personal? The emotions, the sights, the sounds were all so much more than what words could convey. Still, it was difficult to resist writing about my own experience of the Teerth Snaan at the Triveni Sangam in Prayag Raj.
The Kumbh Mela is one of the world’s largest spiritual gatherings, a place where millions of Hindus  come together every 12 years to bathe in the sacred waters and seek salvation or Moksha.
However it was not until my friend Komal said, "A normal Kumbh happens every 12 years, but this is the Mahakumbh—the one that comes only once in 144 years," that I realized the enormity of this phenomenon. The weight of those words hit me hard, and it dawned on me that I couldn’t miss something so extraordinary, an experience that would certainly  never come again in my lifetime.
With Komal by my side, I embarked on this journey, unaware of just how intense it would be. Our first stop was Varanasi, where we visited Baba Vishwanathji at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. It is believed that the darshan of Baba Vishwanathji before taking a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam adds to the auspiciousness of the experience. After the darshan, we set off for Prayag Raj by road. A journey that would normally have taken  about three hours turned into an eight-hour ride due to heavy traffic, but my anticipation kept me going.
Despite the long travel instead of taking rest we decided to leave for the Triveni Sangam for taking  the Teerth Snaan.
The winter air was cool and inviting, and the sight of the riverbanks teeming with people added to the excitement. As we reached our designated point opposite the fort, from where we had to take a boat to the Sangam, the evening sun hung low in the sky, casting a golden glow over the river. The waters sparkled invitingly, and the whole scene felt magical. In that moment, I was overwhelmed with a deep sense of gratitude, grateful for this chance to experience such a moment, to feel so deeply connected to our culture, heritage, and the divine.
Standing by the river, the energy around me was palpable. The Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati—coming together at the Triveni Sangam—have been revered for centuries, and the air seemed to hum with spiritual power.
Without hesitation, I waded into the cool, welcoming waters. It was ice cold but the moment my feet touched the river, I felt an overwhelming wave of peace wash over me. The weariness from the journey melted away, and it felt as though my soul was being cleansed. It wasn't just a physical refreshment; it was a deep, spiritual renewal. With each dip I found myself praying and remembering family, friends, well wishers.
I also found myself  laughing like a gleeful child splashing around in the water, feeling carefree and at peace as the worries of everyday life seemed to float away. The holy waters held a power that words couldn't fully describe.
As Komal completed her pooja, I felt a great sense of connection to something greater than myself. The Sangam, where the three sacred rivers meet, is not only a physical meeting point but a place of immense spiritual significance. People from across the globe gather here to purify their souls, and in that moment, I could feel the significance of centuries of devotion.
What captivated me even more than the beauty of the place was the collective energy of the people around me—all seeking blessings, purification, and a deeper connection with the divine. The unity, the devotion, the sense of purpose in the air was tangible.
I watched the sun dip below the horizon, its golden hues reflecting in the water. Everything—the sky, the river, the people—seemed to come together in perfect harmony. It felt as though the universe had conspired to bring me to this sacred moment, where everything aligned, and peace filled my heart.
We collected Gangajal (holy water) from the river and the holy soil from the river basin for our loved ones. It was a simple act, but one that felt deeply profound—a way to share a part of this sacred experience with those we hold dear but had been unable to come due to various compulsions.
That night, we took a walk along the tent city. The scene was nothing short of magical. Pilgrims, some wearing expensive shoes, others walking barefoot, moved with determination toward the river. There were families with infants, elderly people with walking sticks, and young children running ahead—all united in their journey to the holy waters. It was a beautiful sight, a reminder of the blessing we had witnessed and they were wanting to witness or had witnessed.
The atmosphere was peaceful, despite the crowds. People were praying, laughing, talking, and simply soaking in the moment. There was an underlying calmness, a serenity that transcended the busyness of the place.
The next morning we chose a different ghat and that experience was more ethereal with the rising sun. The priests with Chandan teeka or the chaiwallah from whom we had local tea added to the rustic charm.
The Mahakumbh wasn't just about any customary ritual dip in the river; it was about the collective experience, the energy, the sacredness of the moment, and the connection between sea of Hindu humanity and the divine. It was a journey which highlighted the magnanimity of a philosophy which we refer to as a ‘way of life’. Maybe that is what gave all of us the strength to be a miniscule part of this experience which surged into largest human congregation.
As we left the tent city, I knew this experience would stay with me forever. The Mahakumbh is not something you just witness; it fills your heart with awe, gratitude,wonder & deeper respect for the cosmic order akin to a mother embracing her child. No wonder I kept repeating " Ganga maiyaa ki Jai"...