The fifteenth Pravasi Bhartiya Diwas will begin on Monday. The three-day event from January 21 to 23 will take place in Varanasi with Prime minister Narendra Modi formally inaugurating the event on Tuesday and President Ram Nath Kovind speaking at the closing ceremony on Wednesday. Mauritian Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth, who is on a week-long visit to India, will be the chief guest.

"On the 22nd evening, there will be a program on Ganga by Hema Malini," External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said ahead of the event.&nbsp;

The attendees will be taken to Prayagraj for the Kumbh Mela on January 24, on the 25th they will be brought to Delhi for sightseeing, and on the 26th they will watch the Republic Day parade in the capital.&nbsp;

The Uttar Pradesh government has made provisions for the stay of the attendees — they will be put up at people's homes in Varanasi and at a tent city in Prayagraj.&nbsp;

"Under Varanasi Aatithya and to give the diaspora members the feel of Indian hospitality, families in Varanasi have opened their doors. PM wanted this and to facilitate this, people have registered and we have selected families where NRIs can stay," Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said.&nbsp;

A Youth PBD will take place on the first day of the gala and at which the chief guests will be Himanshu Gulati, member of parliament from Norway, and Kamaljeet Bakshi, member of parliament from New Zealand. Thirty people will be honoured by the President with Pravasi Samman awards on the last day.

The decision to hold a Pravasi Bhartiya Diwas was first taken by former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee and the first PBD took place under his prime ministership from January 9 to 11, &nbsp;2003. To honour Vajpayee, the auditorium in which PBD 2019 will take place has been named after him. An exhibition is also being organised to remember him.

Asked how the PBD will increase diplomatic outreach, Minister of State for External Affairs General VK Singh — he was speaking at a curtain-raiser press conference, said, "The amount of money that our diaspora members send to India, which is not visible to everybody, the amount of remittances that we get back to India, that is not visible to everybody but their effect is not obviously visible to everybody. Whatever we spend on we do it after much deliberations and what I believe that the message that we put across through this and the way we have structured the Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas, it definitely improves our outreach."

The chief ministers of Haryana and Uttarakhand will be participating in the PBD.

This is the third PBD being organised by the Modi government. The first was held in January 2015 in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, the second in January 2017 in Bengaluru, Karnataka. In 2015, the Modi government turned the PBD into a biennial event.

The PBD begins every year on January 9 to mark Mahatma Gandhi's arrival back in India from South Africa in 1915. It was moved back to the January 21 this year to align it with the Kumbh Mela and Republic Day so that the diaspora could experience India's culture at Prayagraj and its grandeur at Rajpath.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The fifteenth Pravasi Bhartiya Diwas will begin on Monday. The three-day event from January 21 to 23 will take place in Varanasi with Prime minister Narendra Modi formally inaugurating the event on Tuesday and President Ram Nath Kovind speaking at the closing ceremony on Wednesday.

The fifteenth Pravasi Bhartiya Diwas will begin on Monday. The three-day event from January 21 to 23 will take place in Varanasi with Prime minister Narendra Modi formally inaugurating the event on Tuesday and President Ram Nath Kovind speaking at the closing ceremony on Wednesday. Mauritian Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth, who is on a week-long visit to India, will be the chief guest. "On the 22nd evening, there will be a program on Ganga by Hema Malini," External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said ahead of the event. The attendees will be taken to Prayagraj for the Kumbh Mela on January 24, on the 25th they will be brought to Delhi for sightseeing, and on the 26th they will watch the Republic Day parade in the capital. The Uttar Pradesh government has made provisions for the stay of the attendees — they will be put up at people's homes in Varanasi and at a tent city in Prayagraj. "Under Varanasi Aatithya and to give the diaspora members the feel of Indian hospitality, families in Varanasi have opened their doors. PM wanted this and to facilitate this, people have registered and we have selected families where NRIs can stay," Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said. A Youth PBD will take place on the first day of the gala and at which the chief guests will be Himanshu Gulati, member of parliament from Norway, and Kamaljeet Bakshi, member of parliament from New Zealand. Thirty people will be honoured by the President with Pravasi Samman awards on the last day. The decision to hold a Pravasi Bhartiya Diwas was first taken by former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee and the first PBD took place under his prime ministership from January 9 to 11, 2003. To honour Vajpayee, the auditorium in which PBD 2019 will take place has been named after him. An exhibition is also being organised to remember him. Asked how the PBD will increase diplomatic outreach, Minister of State for External Affairs General VK Singh — he was speaking at a curtain-raiser press conference, said, "The amount of money that our diaspora members send to India, which is not visible to everybody, the amount of remittances that we get back to India, that is not visible to everybody but their effect is not obviously visible to everybody. Whatever we spend on we do it after much deliberations and what I believe that the message that we put across through this and the way we have structured the Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas, it definitely improves our outreach." The chief ministers of Haryana and Uttarakhand will be participating in the PBD. This is the third PBD being organised by the Modi government. The first was held in January 2015 in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, the second in January 2017 in Bengaluru, Karnataka. In 2015, the Modi government turned the PBD into a biennial event. The PBD begins every year on January 9 to mark Mahatma Gandhi's arrival back in India from South Africa in 1915. It was moved back to the January 21 this year to align it with the Kumbh Mela and Republic Day so that the diaspora could experience India's culture at Prayagraj and its grandeur at Rajpath.

Fifteenth Pravasi Bhartiya Divas to begin Monday in Varanasi, Mauritian PM Pravind Jugnauth will be chief guest

Prayagraj's Kumbh Mela is one of the only opportunities to see the reclusive Naga sadhus. These ascetics take a vow of celibacy and renounce worldly possessions. Besides the sadhus, there are many more saints who have been sharing their wisdom and knowledge with the world in the ongoing Mela. I met one such saint who is helping people by healing their minds and bodies with her cosmic practices.&nbsp;

The shores of Sangam have witnessed the conglomeration of the world’s most learned saints for centuries now. The Mela is touted as the largest religious gathering on the planet. Every nook and corner of the Mela site is studded with akharas set up by sadhus, saints with people gathering to experience their knowledge.

Sanyasini Shailja Devi has been practising meditation since she was 19. A former national basketball captain, she now takes pride in being a cosmic healer and helping people. Devi meditates for hours every day. Born in east Africa, she now lives in Junagadh, Gujrat. &nbsp;

With her years of practice, she claims she can feel the abnormalities in the energy that surrounds the body.

I visited her camp to experience the cosmic healing. I didn’t tell them about my health issues and asked them if they could them find and heal it.

Shailja Devi explained that cosmic healing works in three steps - scanning, cleansing and energising. With the method of cleansing, the excessive energy of the body is cleaned. It could be just excessive energy, diseases energy or blocked energy. After the cleansing is done, the body is energised. Fresh and healthy 'Prana' or energy is transferred to the body that strengthens and heals it.

She said that cosmic healing turns out to be a true life-giver. She has even healed those with mouth cancer

“I had patients of mouth cancer who could neither eat nor speak. After I started their treatment, they were able to eat some liquid food just after a month into the treatment,” she noted.&nbsp;

At the end of the whole process, she was able to tell the issues with my body, her diagnosis was almost true about my health.

I did feel lighter after the process, however, she said it wouldn’t bring immediate relief and asked me to practice meditation.&nbsp;

"A good healer is very important," she noted. Not everyone can practice this technique. "So, if you are attempting this technique or getting a session of healing done, just make sure that you have what is necessary," she concluded.&nbsp;

Prayagraj's Kumbh Mela is one of the only opportunities to see the reclusive Naga sadhus. These ascetics take a vow of celibacy and renounce worldly possessions.

Prayagraj's Kumbh Mela is one of the only opportunities to see the reclusive Naga sadhus. These ascetics take a vow of celibacy and renounce worldly possessions. Besides the sadhus, there are many more saints who have been sharing their wisdom and knowledge with the world in the ongoing Mela. I met one such saint who is helping people by healing their minds and bodies with her cosmic practices. The shores of Sangam have witnessed the conglomeration of the world’s most learned saints for centuries now. The Mela is touted as the largest religious gathering on the planet. Every nook and corner of the Mela site is studded with akharas set up by sadhus, saints with people gathering to experience their knowledge. Sanyasini Shailja Devi has been practising meditation since she was 19. A former national basketball captain, she now takes pride in being a cosmic healer and helping people. Devi meditates for hours every day. Born in east Africa, she now lives in Junagadh, Gujrat. With her years of practice, she claims she can feel the abnormalities in the energy that surrounds the body. I visited her camp to experience the cosmic healing. I didn’t tell them about my health issues and asked them if they could them find and heal it. Shailja Devi explained that cosmic healing works in three steps - scanning, cleansing and energising. With the method of cleansing, the excessive energy of the body is cleaned. It could be just excessive energy, diseases energy or blocked energy. After the cleansing is done, the body is energised. Fresh and healthy 'Prana' or energy is transferred to the body that strengthens and heals it. She said that cosmic healing turns out to be a true life-giver. She has even healed those with mouth cancer “I had patients of mouth cancer who could neither eat nor speak. After I started their treatment, they were able to eat some liquid food just after a month into the treatment,” she noted. At the end of the whole process, she was able to tell the issues with my body, her diagnosis was almost true about my health. I did feel lighter after the process, however, she said it wouldn’t bring immediate relief and asked me to practice meditation. "A good healer is very important," she noted. Not everyone can practice this technique. "So, if you are attempting this technique or getting a session of healing done, just make sure that you have what is necessary," she concluded.

Blog: At Kumbh, a former national basketball captain who is now a cosmic healer

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/blog-former-national-basketball-player-turned-cosmic-healer-draws-attention-at-kumbh-mela-191548">The mega Kumbh Mela</a>, which began on January 15 and will continue till March 4, is expected to generate a revenue of Rs 1.2 lakh crore for Uttar Pradesh, says apex industry body Confederation of Indian Industry.

Although the Kumbh Mela is spiritual and religious in nature, the economic activities associated with it generate employment for over six lakh workers across various sectors, CII said in a report.

The Uttar Pradesh government has allocated Rs 4,200 crore for the 50-day Kumbh Mela this time, which is over thrice the budget of the Maha Kumbh in 2013, making the mega pilgrimage perhaps the costliest ever.

The hospitality sector aims at employing 2,50,000 people, airlines and airports around 1,50,000 and tour operators around 45,000. The employment numbers in eco-tourism and medical tourism are being estimated at 85,000, says a CII study.

Apart from this, there will be around 55,000 new jobs in the unorganized sector comprising of tour guides, taxi drivers, interpreters, volunteers etc.&nbsp; 
This will lead to increase income levels for government agencies and individual traders.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/14-crore-people-take-dip-as-kumbh-mela-begins-in-prayagraj-190554">Attracting a massive number of foreign tourists</a> from various countries like Australia, UK, Canada, Malaysia, Singapore, South Africa, New Zealand, Mauritius, Zimbabwe, and Sri Lanka, the Kumbh is a festival of the world.

"The 'mela' is expected to generate a revenue of Rs1,200 billion for Uttar Pradesh, the state where it is being held, while neighbouring states like Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, Punjab and Himachal Pradesh will also benefit from the enhanced revenue generation with a large number of national and foreign tourists expected to explore other destinations.

The Uttar Pradesh government has allocated a hefty amount of Rs 4,200 crore for the Kumbh Mela held in Allahabad, which has become the costliest pilgrimage till date.

"The UP government has allocated Rs 4,200 crore for 2019 Kumbh Mela. The previous state government had spent around Rs 1,300 crore for the Maha Kumbh, which was held in 2013," state Finance Minister Rajesh Agarwal told PTI.

The area of Kumbh Mela has also been doubled to 3,200 hectares as compared to 1,600 hectares in the previous melas.

The Kumbh is a unique and massive gathering of both rural and urban population and also has a huge dispersal factor as people travel long distances across the country.&nbsp;

In order to house this multitude, authorities have erected a mini-city of more than 4,000 tents. The city is being lit by installing over 40,000 LED lights, say local authorities.

Overhauling of key infrastructure is being done, including upgrading nine railways stations and construction of a new airport terminal in Allahabad.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kumbh-2019-largest-temporary-city-of-world-to-have-250-kilometre-long-roads-22-bridges-188891">The setting up of this new city in the huge Mela</a> area involves 250-kilometre&nbsp;roads and 22 pontoon bridges, which will make it the largest temporary city in the world.

The Kumbh, a sacred Hindu pilgrimage, is thus expected to generate direct and indirect business activities, the fruits of which would hopefully benefit the economy not only of Uttar Pradesh but that of India as a whole, the CII document says.&nbsp;

The Kumbh at Sangam city Prayagraj, as Allahabad is now known, dates back to a hoary past, whose first mention of was made some 2,000 years ago by the Chinese traveller Hsuan Tsang who visited India during the reign on King Harshvardhana.

Based on a complex astrological calculation, the alignment of the stars determines the time and place of the 'Kumbh' in one of the following four river-sites: Haridwar, Prayagraj, Nasik, and Ujjain.

It is a celebration of an ancient tradition, a dip in the holy waters where the mythical Saraswati, Ganga and Yamuna meet. These riverside festivals and the city that springs up around them are attended by millions, making the 'Kumbh Mela' the largest religious gathering, perhaps the oldest, and the largest temporary city in the world.

Learned seers believe that a dip in the waters would endow an individual with religious merit.&nbsp;

Masses of devotees gather on the riverbank to attain spiritual enlightenment, some in the belief that doing so will lead them worldly success, others simply to purify their souls.

The Kumbh Mela gets its worldwide reputation as a mega-event not only because of the sheer number of people who attend the fair but also for a widespread display of cultural traits of a nation, which is bound by ties of faith and traditions.

Around 12 crore people are expected to visit the Kumbh between now and Maha Shivratri on March 4, when the Mela will come to a close on Maha Shivratri day.

The first "Shahi Snan' (royal bath) of Kumbh on January 15 drew a record crowd of 2.25 devotees, said Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who has been meticulously supervising minute details personally to make the event "Divya Kumbh, Bhavya Kumbh".

Although the Kumbh Mela is spiritual and religious in nature, the economic activities associated with it generate employment for over six lakh workers across various sectors, CII said in a report.

The mega Kumbh Mela, which began on January 15 and will continue till March 4, is expected to generate a revenue of Rs 1.2 lakh crore for Uttar Pradesh, says apex industry body Confederation of Indian Industry. Although the Kumbh Mela is spiritual and religious in nature, the economic activities associated with it generate employment for over six lakh workers across various sectors, CII said in a report. The Uttar Pradesh government has allocated Rs 4,200 crore for the 50-day Kumbh Mela this time, which is over thrice the budget of the Maha Kumbh in 2013, making the mega pilgrimage perhaps the costliest ever. The hospitality sector aims at employing 2,50,000 people, airlines and airports around 1,50,000 and tour operators around 45,000. The employment numbers in eco-tourism and medical tourism are being estimated at 85,000, says a CII study. Apart from this, there will be around 55,000 new jobs in the unorganized sector comprising of tour guides, taxi drivers, interpreters, volunteers etc. This will lead to increase income levels for government agencies and individual traders. Attracting a massive number of foreign tourists from various countries like Australia, UK, Canada, Malaysia, Singapore, South Africa, New Zealand, Mauritius, Zimbabwe, and Sri Lanka, the Kumbh is a festival of the world. "The 'mela' is expected to generate a revenue of Rs1,200 billion for Uttar Pradesh, the state where it is being held, while neighbouring states like Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, Punjab and Himachal Pradesh will also benefit from the enhanced revenue generation with a large number of national and foreign tourists expected to explore other destinations. The Uttar Pradesh government has allocated a hefty amount of Rs 4,200 crore for the Kumbh Mela held in Allahabad, which has become the costliest pilgrimage till date. "The UP government has allocated Rs 4,200 crore for 2019 Kumbh Mela. The previous state government had spent around Rs 1,300 crore for the Maha Kumbh, which was held in 2013," state Finance Minister Rajesh Agarwal told PTI. The area of Kumbh Mela has also been doubled to 3,200 hectares as compared to 1,600 hectares in the previous melas. The Kumbh is a unique and massive gathering of both rural and urban population and also has a huge dispersal factor as people travel long distances across the country. In order to house this multitude, authorities have erected a mini-city of more than 4,000 tents. The city is being lit by installing over 40,000 LED lights, say local authorities. Overhauling of key infrastructure is being done, including upgrading nine railways stations and construction of a new airport terminal in Allahabad. The setting up of this new city in the huge Mela area involves 250-kilometre roads and 22 pontoon bridges, which will make it the largest temporary city in the world. The Kumbh, a sacred Hindu pilgrimage, is thus expected to generate direct and indirect business activities, the fruits of which would hopefully benefit the economy not only of Uttar Pradesh but that of India as a whole, the CII document says. The Kumbh at Sangam city Prayagraj, as Allahabad is now known, dates back to a hoary past, whose first mention of was made some 2,000 years ago by the Chinese traveller Hsuan Tsang who visited India during the reign on King Harshvardhana. Based on a complex astrological calculation, the alignment of the stars determines the time and place of the 'Kumbh' in one of the following four river-sites: Haridwar, Prayagraj, Nasik, and Ujjain. It is a celebration of an ancient tradition, a dip in the holy waters where the mythical Saraswati, Ganga and Yamuna meet. These riverside festivals and the city that springs up around them are attended by millions, making the 'Kumbh Mela' the largest religious gathering, perhaps the oldest, and the largest temporary city in the world. Learned seers believe that a dip in the waters would endow an individual with religious merit. Masses of devotees gather on the riverbank to attain spiritual enlightenment, some in the belief that doing so will lead them worldly success, others simply to purify their souls. The Kumbh Mela gets its worldwide reputation as a mega-event not only because of the sheer number of people who attend the fair but also for a widespread display of cultural traits of a nation, which is bound by ties of faith and traditions. Around 12 crore people are expected to visit the Kumbh between now and Maha Shivratri on March 4, when the Mela will come to a close on Maha Shivratri day. The first "Shahi Snan' (royal bath) of Kumbh on January 15 drew a record crowd of 2.25 devotees, said Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who has been meticulously supervising minute details personally to make the event "Divya Kumbh, Bhavya Kumbh".

Kumbh will generate Rs 1.2 lakh crore in revenue: CII

Passengers returning from the Kumbh Mela in Allahabad on board the Tata Jat Express were robbed Thursday by armed men near Delhi.

This is the second such incident to have taken place on board a train yesterday while nearing the national capital. Earlier, passengers of the Jammu-Delhi Duronto were robbed.

The second incident happened before 2 am between Badli and Holambi Kalan, railways said.

"The train was attended by RPF and GRP at Sonipat station at 01:55 hrs, where the passenger of S-8, Ramnath Maurya, reported loot of Rs 1,000 and small injury in the left hand. He has been provided preliminary treatment at Panipat.

"He told that he will lodge FIR at the destination station. The train was not escorted by the RPF. The matter is being thoroughly investigated," railways said.

Passengers alleged that mobile phones, jewellery and cash were looted from them at gunpoint.

In the earlier incident, a passenger wrote descriptive details on the railways' complaints portal, alleging how they were robbed at knifepoint but could not find any help.&nbsp;

Passengers returning from the Kumbh Mela in Allahabad on board the Tata Jat Express were robbed Thursday by armed men near Delhi. This is the second such incident to have taken place on board a train yesterday while nearing the national capital.

Passengers returning from the Kumbh Mela in Allahabad on board the Tata Jat Express were robbed Thursday by armed men near Delhi. This is the second such incident to have taken place on board a train yesterday while nearing the national capital. Earlier, passengers of the Jammu-Delhi Duronto were robbed. The second incident happened before 2 am between Badli and Holambi Kalan, railways said. "The train was attended by RPF and GRP at Sonipat station at 01:55 hrs, where the passenger of S-8, Ramnath Maurya, reported loot of Rs 1,000 and small injury in the left hand. He has been provided preliminary treatment at Panipat. "He told that he will lodge FIR at the destination station. The train was not escorted by the RPF. The matter is being thoroughly investigated," railways said. Passengers alleged that mobile phones, jewellery and cash were looted from them at gunpoint. In the earlier incident, a passenger wrote descriptive details on the railways' complaints portal, alleging how they were robbed at knifepoint but could not find any help.

Armed men rob train passengers returning from Kumbh at gunpoint near Delhi

Ram Nath Kovind Thursday offered prayers along with his wife at the Sangam here, becoming the first president after Rajendra Prasad to visit a Kumbh Mela.

The president also inaugurated the three-day 'Gandhian Resurgence Summit' at the Parmarth Niketan camp, where he said he was lucky to make the trip.

"This is the first visit by a president to the Kumbh since the visit of then president Rajendra Prasad in 1953," Rashtrapati Bhavan's Twitter account posted later.

The Kumbh is an important part of India's spiritual and cultural heritage, it quoted Kovind as saying.

Kovind and his wife Savita Kovind reached the Bamrauli airport on a special plane of the Indian Air Force around 9:30 am. They were welcomed by Uttar Pradesh Governor Ram Naik, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and several cabinet ministers, officials said.

Kovind said it was a happy coincidence that along with the Kumbh, the 150th birth anniversary celebrations of Mahatma Gandhi also falls this year.

The president and his wife participated in 'Ganga pujan' in the Sangam area along with the governor, chief minister, his deputy Keshva Prasad Maurya and Health Minister Sidharth Nath Singh among others.&nbsp;

The president was at the Sangam area for about half-an-hour.

Sangam refers to the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers.

President Kovind along with his family members came here last year too during the 'Magh Mela'.&nbsp;

Ram Nath Kovind Thursday offered prayers along with his wife at the Sangam here, becoming the first president after Rajendra Prasad to visit a Kumbh Mela. The president also inaugurated the three-day 'Gandhian Resurgence Summit' at the Parmarth Niketan camp, where he said he was lucky to make the trip.

Ram Nath Kovind Thursday offered prayers along with his wife at the Sangam here, becoming the first president after Rajendra Prasad to visit a Kumbh Mela. The president also inaugurated the three-day 'Gandhian Resurgence Summit' at the Parmarth Niketan camp, where he said he was lucky to make the trip. "This is the first visit by a president to the Kumbh since the visit of then president Rajendra Prasad in 1953," Rashtrapati Bhavan's Twitter account posted later. The Kumbh is an important part of India's spiritual and cultural heritage, it quoted Kovind as saying. Kovind and his wife Savita Kovind reached the Bamrauli airport on a special plane of the Indian Air Force around 9:30 am. They were welcomed by Uttar Pradesh Governor Ram Naik, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and several cabinet ministers, officials said. Kovind said it was a happy coincidence that along with the Kumbh, the 150th birth anniversary celebrations of Mahatma Gandhi also falls this year. The president and his wife participated in 'Ganga pujan' in the Sangam area along with the governor, chief minister, his deputy Keshva Prasad Maurya and Health Minister Sidharth Nath Singh among others. The president was at the Sangam area for about half-an-hour. Sangam refers to the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers. President Kovind along with his family members came here last year too during the 'Magh Mela'.

Kovind offers prayers at Sangam, 1st president after Rajendra Prasad to visit Kumbh 

With the beginning of Kumbh on January 15, Prayagraj is lit up like Diwali for the 2019 Kumbh Mela. The first Shahi Snan witnessed unprecedented crowds coming in from across the country and the world &nbsp;More than 15 crore people are expected this time for the Kumbh Mela. I met a German travel photographer, Mark Troger Bergis who is about to write a book on Kumbh and his spiritual journey.&nbsp;

Mark has been travelling to India since 2010 and he first came to India with the renowned photographer Steve McCurry to attend a photography workshop. He landed in Haridwar and was completely stunned by a mass of people.&nbsp;

Mark says it's hard for him to describe the Kumbh but what impressed him the most was&nbsp;Naga Sadhus. He calls them the rockstars of Kumbh Mela. This is Mark's second Kumbh, the first one he attended was held in 2013 in Prayagraj.

"None of the Kumbh gatherings is like the other, I have been here in earlier Kumbh. If I compare two Kumbhs there is a big difference and it's difficult to interpret," he said.

After his first confrontation with Nagas in Haridwar, Mark has been intrigued by their way of living and he has been following them all around in different Kumbh Melas for the past years.

He later travelled to India in 2013 and tried hard to capture the magic moments when Naga Babas come for Shahi Snan in the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna and the mystic river Saraswati. But with millions of people around in the gathering, it was difficult for him to get a perfect shot. In 2015, he visited one more Kumbh and travelled to Nashik, Trimbakeshwar, but he failed again as police stopped him. Nevertheless, in 2016 he finally succeeded and captured Naga babas while they took the royal bath.

"I want to tell people about personal experience and the holy event itself. Still, so many people don't know about it and it's the biggest gathering on earth, they are expecting 120 million people this year and it's unimaginable for the westerners."

Mark feels that the western media has always been unfair to India and has stereotyped it and gathering like Kumbh in many ways. He wants to show the true image to the west. He believes that the west can learn from India in many ways.

"In Christianity, we have events like these but nothing compared to the Kumbh, if you count the number of Hindu people, it's the third largest religion and it troubles me a little that we westerners know so little about Hinduism ."

This time, Mark came with his wife and took the first royal bath. The experience was stunning, especially for his wife. He is going to Switzerland to deliver a speech on Kumbh Mela and will return at the end of January.&nbsp;

One advice that Steve McCurry gave Mark in 2010 was- "If you come to Kumbh Mela you don't have to travel entire India, whole India comes to you in the Kumbh. There is something spiritual on the banks of these rivers."&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

With the beginning of Kumbh on January 15, Prayagraj is lit up like Diwali for the 2019 Kumbh Mela. The first Shahi Snan witnessed unprecedented crowds coming in from across the country and the world More than 15 crore people are expected this time for the Kumbh Mela.

With the beginning of Kumbh on January 15, Prayagraj is lit up like Diwali for the 2019 Kumbh Mela. The first Shahi Snan witnessed unprecedented crowds coming in from across the country and the world More than 15 crore people are expected this time for the Kumbh Mela. I met a German travel photographer, Mark Troger Bergis who is about to write a book on Kumbh and his spiritual journey. Mark has been travelling to India since 2010 and he first came to India with the renowned photographer Steve McCurry to attend a photography workshop. He landed in Haridwar and was completely stunned by a mass of people. Mark says it's hard for him to describe the Kumbh but what impressed him the most was Naga Sadhus. He calls them the rockstars of Kumbh Mela. This is Mark's second Kumbh, the first one he attended was held in 2013 in Prayagraj. "None of the Kumbh gatherings is like the other, I have been here in earlier Kumbh. If I compare two Kumbhs there is a big difference and it's difficult to interpret," he said. After his first confrontation with Nagas in Haridwar, Mark has been intrigued by their way of living and he has been following them all around in different Kumbh Melas for the past years. He later travelled to India in 2013 and tried hard to capture the magic moments when Naga Babas come for Shahi Snan in the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna and the mystic river Saraswati. But with millions of people around in the gathering, it was difficult for him to get a perfect shot. In 2015, he visited one more Kumbh and travelled to Nashik, Trimbakeshwar, but he failed again as police stopped him. Nevertheless, in 2016 he finally succeeded and captured Naga babas while they took the royal bath. "I want to tell people about personal experience and the holy event itself. Still, so many people don't know about it and it's the biggest gathering on earth, they are expecting 120 million people this year and it's unimaginable for the westerners." Mark feels that the western media has always been unfair to India and has stereotyped it and gathering like Kumbh in many ways. He wants to show the true image to the west. He believes that the west can learn from India in many ways. "In Christianity, we have events like these but nothing compared to the Kumbh, if you count the number of Hindu people, it's the third largest religion and it troubles me a little that we westerners know so little about Hinduism ." This time, Mark came with his wife and took the first royal bath. The experience was stunning, especially for his wife. He is going to Switzerland to deliver a speech on Kumbh Mela and will return at the end of January. One advice that Steve McCurry gave Mark in 2010 was- "If you come to Kumbh Mela you don't have to travel entire India, whole India comes to you in the Kumbh. There is something spiritual on the banks of these rivers." (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Blog: What took this German photographer to Kumbh

In pics: Reclusive Naga sadhus a huge draw at Kumbh Mela

NGO Narayan Seva Sansthan (NSS) has set up a spiritual and surgical camp at the ongoing Kumbh Mela, along with an artificial limb development unit.

Prashant Agarwal, President of Narayan Seva Sansthan, speaking to reporters here Thursday said senior surgeon Amar Singh Chundawat's team will be measuring differently-abled individuals for making customised limbs for them, which will then be installed and donated to the beneficiaries.

"We will conduct surgeries free of cost," he said.

The NGO has set up a 100-bed hospital at the fair site at the sacred&nbsp;confluence of the Ganga, the Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati.&nbsp;

Agarwal said the NGO has invited volunteers from all across the country and divided them in three groups -- for cleanliness, operation of wheelchairs, and foot massage of devotees.

"The 'Swachh Army' deals with cleanliness in the mela. The 'Wheelchair Army' will help the elderly, who are unable to walk, or disabled. They provide wheelchair and help them to enjoy the Kumbh Mela. The 'Foot Massage Army' will help pilgrim and saints by giving them a massage," the president of the Udaipur-based NGO said.

He said the NSS had operated on 3.7 lakh patients in the past 33 years and has provided them socio-economic support by making available best of medical services, medicines and technologies free of cost.

"Out of 3.7 lakh patients, around 2 lakh patients were from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar," he said.

The 2019 Kumbh Mela commenced on January 15 on Makar Sankranti and will come to an end on Mahashivratri on March 4. More than 12 crore people are expected to take part in the festival over the next 50 days.&nbsp;

NGO Narayan Seva Sansthan (NSS) has set up a spiritual and surgical camp at the ongoing Kumbh Mela, along with an artificial limb development unit. Prashant Agarwal, President of Narayan Seva Sansthan, speaking to reporters here Thursday said senior surgeon Amar Singh Chundawat's team will be measuring differently-abled individuals for making customised limbs for them, which will then be installed and donated to the beneficiaries.

NGO Narayan Seva Sansthan (NSS) has set up a spiritual and surgical camp at the ongoing Kumbh Mela, along with an artificial limb development unit. Prashant Agarwal, President of Narayan Seva Sansthan, speaking to reporters here Thursday said senior surgeon Amar Singh Chundawat's team will be measuring differently-abled individuals for making customised limbs for them, which will then be installed and donated to the beneficiaries. "We will conduct surgeries free of cost," he said. The NGO has set up a 100-bed hospital at the fair site at the sacred confluence of the Ganga, the Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati. Agarwal said the NGO has invited volunteers from all across the country and divided them in three groups -- for cleanliness, operation of wheelchairs, and foot massage of devotees. "The 'Swachh Army' deals with cleanliness in the mela. The 'Wheelchair Army' will help the elderly, who are unable to walk, or disabled. They provide wheelchair and help them to enjoy the Kumbh Mela. The 'Foot Massage Army' will help pilgrim and saints by giving them a massage," the president of the Udaipur-based NGO said. He said the NSS had operated on 3.7 lakh patients in the past 33 years and has provided them socio-economic support by making available best of medical services, medicines and technologies free of cost. "Out of 3.7 lakh patients, around 2 lakh patients were from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar," he said. The 2019 Kumbh Mela commenced on January 15 on Makar Sankranti and will come to an end on Mahashivratri on March 4. More than 12 crore people are expected to take part in the festival over the next 50 days.

NGO sets up 100-bed hospital at Kumbh Mela site

Whopping 120 million expected to attend Kumbh Mela 2019

Millions of Hindus in India take royal bath as ‘Kumbh Mela’ begins

Marking the onset of the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj on Tuesday, thousands of devotees took a holy dip in the Sangam during the wee hours.

Loud chantings of religious songs were heard as the devotees proceeded towards the bathing site which lit up like Diwali in a hue of multiple colours.

The Kumbh this year is organised at a much wider scale than its previous editions.

Elaborate security arrangements have been organised&nbsp;and pontoon bridges have been constructed to lead the visitors to the 5-km bathing ghat at Sangam.&nbsp;

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Varanasi: Devotees take holy dip in river Ganga on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MakarSankranti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MakarSankranti</a>. <a href="https://t.co/fVeQZE0h51">pic.twitter.com/fVeQZE0h51</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1084987022408769537?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Strict security has been deployed at all entry and exit points of these bridges to maintain law and order.

Glorifying the country's culture, PM Modi hoped for huge participation of devotees in the Kumbh Mela.

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प्रयागराज में आरंभ हो रहे पवित्र कुम्भ मेले की हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं। 
 
मुझे आशा है कि इस अवसर पर देश-विदेश के श्रद्धालुओं को भारत की आध्यात्मिक, सांस्कृतिक एवं सामाजिक विविधताओं के दर्शन होंगे। 
 
मेरी कामना है कि अधिक से अधिक लोग इस दिव्य और भव्य आयोजन का हिस्सा बनें। <a href="https://t.co/qAxJtNrUPn">pic.twitter.com/qAxJtNrUPn</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1084975311043710976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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About 13 'akharas'&nbsp;will be participating in the "Shahi Snan", the ceremonial bath on Tuesday with each being allocated about 45 minutes by the Kumbh authorities.&nbsp;

The "Shahi Snan" is considered among the most significant components of the Kumbh Mela, and is supposed to begin at a certain hour.

The Kumbh Mela is held every six years, while the Maha Kumbh takes place every 12 years.

The Kumbh Mela will reach its culmination on March 4, which also marks the Maha Shivratri, the last of the six dates for "Shahi Snan".

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Hindu seers and saints head towards Sangam Ghat for a holy dip in river Ganga on the occasion of first ‘Shahi Snan’ at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KumbhMela2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KumbhMela2019</a> in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj (Early morning visuals) <a href="https://t.co/9PBx4yBODE">pic.twitter.com/9PBx4yBODE</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1085001016708349952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Marking the onset of the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj on Tuesday, thousands of devotees took a holy dip in the Sangam during the wee hours. Loud chantings of religious songs were heard as the devotees proceeded towards the bathing site which lit up like Diwali in a hue of multiple colours.

Marking the onset of the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj on Tuesday, thousands of devotees took a holy dip in the Sangam during the wee hours. Loud chantings of religious songs were heard as the devotees proceeded towards the bathing site which lit up like Diwali in a hue of multiple colours. The Kumbh this year is organised at a much wider scale than its previous editions. Elaborate security arrangements have been organised and pontoon bridges have been constructed to lead the visitors to the 5-km bathing ghat at Sangam. Varanasi: Devotees take holy dip in river Ganga on #MakarSankranti. pic.twitter.com/fVeQZE0h51 — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) January 15, 2019 × Strict security has been deployed at all entry and exit points of these bridges to maintain law and order. Glorifying the country's culture, PM Modi hoped for huge participation of devotees in the Kumbh Mela. प्रयागराज में आरंभ हो रहे पवित्र कुम्भ मेले की हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं। मुझे आशा है कि इस अवसर पर देश-विदेश के श्रद्धालुओं को भारत की आध्यात्मिक, सांस्कृतिक एवं सामाजिक विविधताओं के दर्शन होंगे। मेरी कामना है कि अधिक से अधिक लोग इस दिव्य और भव्य आयोजन का हिस्सा बनें। pic.twitter.com/qAxJtNrUPn — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 15, 2019 × About 13 'akharas' will be participating in the "Shahi Snan", the ceremonial bath on Tuesday with each being allocated about 45 minutes by the Kumbh authorities. The "Shahi Snan" is considered among the most significant components of the Kumbh Mela, and is supposed to begin at a certain hour. The Kumbh Mela is held every six years, while the Maha Kumbh takes place every 12 years. The Kumbh Mela will reach its culmination on March 4, which also marks the Maha Shivratri, the last of the six dates for "Shahi Snan". #WATCH Hindu seers and saints head towards Sangam Ghat for a holy dip in river Ganga on the occasion of first ‘Shahi Snan’ at #KumbhMela2019 in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj (Early morning visuals) pic.twitter.com/9PBx4yBODE — ANI (@ANI) January 15, 2019 ×

Thousands throng to the Sangam in Prayagraj as Kumbh Mela opens

The sacred baths began at break of dawn as the sun rose faintly over the horizon and went on through the day till the last rays set over the Sangam, the chants of "Har Har Gange" reaching a crescendo as lakhs of people took a dip to mark the beginning of the Kumbh Mela on Tuesday.

By end of day, about 1.4 crore people had taken the ritual bath in the holy waters of the Sangam here, administration officials estimated.&nbsp;

Makar Sankranti, which marks the beginning of the festival, is one of the sacred days of the 50-day Kumbh Mela.

The confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati has called out to the religious for centuries and Tuesday was a continuation of an ancient ritual that has stood the test of time, history and modernisation.&nbsp;

Undeterred by the cold, a couple with their hands held tight stood waist deep in the river, a woman, her hands cupped, offered water to the rising sun, an ascetic took a dip with his eyes closed in veneration while a group of children frolicked nearby.

It was about religious fervour, spirituality, love and even fun at the 'Shahi Snan' (royal bath) on Makar Sakranti as devotees, ascetics and religious leaders of various orders gathered for the largest congregation in the world.&nbsp;

People from lands near and far braved the cold weather to take a dip in the icy waters, reaching the makeshift township of Kumbh Nagari, touted to be the world's biggest temporary city, as early as 4 am.&nbsp;

Sadhus of 13 akharas (seven Shaiva, three Vaishnava, two Udasina, and one Sikh) who have traditionally participated in the Kumbh Mela were the first to take the holy bath.

They marched in a procession, dancing and singing devotional songs, all the way to the waters. Each akhara, the term for an organisation of sadhus, was allocated 45 minutes to participate in the ritual bath by the Kumbh administration.&nbsp;

The order in which the holy dip is performed by various akharas is pre-determined. It started with Mahanirvani along with the Atal akhara, the Niranjani along with the Ananada Akhara, and the Juna along with the Avahana and Agni akharas.

They were followed by the Nirvani akhara, Digambara akhara, Nirmohi akhara, Bada Udasin akhara, Naya Udasin akhara and last, the lone Sikh Nirmal akhara.

Attracting eyeballs of one and all, especially foreigners, was the march of the Naga sadhus, a martial order of ascetics who roam naked with ash smeared on their bodies.

"It is surreal. I had always heard about them. In fact, one of the reasons we wanted to come to the Kumbh was to see them in real as we are told that this is the only festival in which they arrive in numbers," said Manuel Matthaus, who had come from Germany.

"Yes, I did plan to take the bath. But I guess the water now is too freezing for my liking. Maybe later," as his girlfriend captured the spectacle on her camera.

More than 12 crore people are expected to visit the Kumbh between now and Maha Shivratri on March 4.

It is traditionally called 'Ardh Kumbh' as it takes place twice in 12 years. But the present Uttar Pradesh government recently renamed it 'Kumbh'.

In 2013, according to a recent book 'Kumbha: The Traditionally Modern Mela', one in 10 Indians attended the grand religious event. The state government expects the number to be higher this time.&nbsp;

The Uttar Pradesh government has allocated Rs 4,200 crore for the Kumbh Mela, which is more than thrice the budget of the Maha Kumbh in 2013, making the mega pilgrimage perhaps the costliest ever.

"The UP government has allocated Rs 4,200 crore for 2019 Kumbh Mela. The previous state government had spent around Rs 1,300 crore for the Maha Kumbh, which was held in 2013," state Finance Minister Rajesh Agarwal told PTI.

The auspicious bathing days of the 2019 Kumbh Mela include Paush Poornima (January 21), Mauni Amawasya (February 4), Basant Panchami (February 10), Maghi Poornima (February 19) and Mahashivratri (March 4).&nbsp;

The sacred baths began at break of dawn as the sun rose faintly over the horizon and went on through the day till the last rays set over the Sangam, the chants of "Har Har Gange" reaching a crescendo as lakhs of people took a dip to mark the beginning of the Kumbh Mela on Tuesday.

The sacred baths began at break of dawn as the sun rose faintly over the horizon and went on through the day till the last rays set over the Sangam, the chants of "Har Har Gange" reaching a crescendo as lakhs of people took a dip to mark the beginning of the Kumbh Mela on Tuesday. By end of day, about 1.4 crore people had taken the ritual bath in the holy waters of the Sangam here, administration officials estimated. Makar Sankranti, which marks the beginning of the festival, is one of the sacred days of the 50-day Kumbh Mela. The confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati has called out to the religious for centuries and Tuesday was a continuation of an ancient ritual that has stood the test of time, history and modernisation. Undeterred by the cold, a couple with their hands held tight stood waist deep in the river, a woman, her hands cupped, offered water to the rising sun, an ascetic took a dip with his eyes closed in veneration while a group of children frolicked nearby. It was about religious fervour, spirituality, love and even fun at the 'Shahi Snan' (royal bath) on Makar Sakranti as devotees, ascetics and religious leaders of various orders gathered for the largest congregation in the world. People from lands near and far braved the cold weather to take a dip in the icy waters, reaching the makeshift township of Kumbh Nagari, touted to be the world's biggest temporary city, as early as 4 am. Sadhus of 13 akharas (seven Shaiva, three Vaishnava, two Udasina, and one Sikh) who have traditionally participated in the Kumbh Mela were the first to take the holy bath. They marched in a procession, dancing and singing devotional songs, all the way to the waters. Each akhara, the term for an organisation of sadhus, was allocated 45 minutes to participate in the ritual bath by the Kumbh administration. The order in which the holy dip is performed by various akharas is pre-determined. It started with Mahanirvani along with the Atal akhara, the Niranjani along with the Ananada Akhara, and the Juna along with the Avahana and Agni akharas. They were followed by the Nirvani akhara, Digambara akhara, Nirmohi akhara, Bada Udasin akhara, Naya Udasin akhara and last, the lone Sikh Nirmal akhara. Attracting eyeballs of one and all, especially foreigners, was the march of the Naga sadhus, a martial order of ascetics who roam naked with ash smeared on their bodies. "It is surreal. I had always heard about them. In fact, one of the reasons we wanted to come to the Kumbh was to see them in real as we are told that this is the only festival in which they arrive in numbers," said Manuel Matthaus, who had come from Germany. "Yes, I did plan to take the bath. But I guess the water now is too freezing for my liking. Maybe later," as his girlfriend captured the spectacle on her camera. More than 12 crore people are expected to visit the Kumbh between now and Maha Shivratri on March 4. It is traditionally called 'Ardh Kumbh' as it takes place twice in 12 years. But the present Uttar Pradesh government recently renamed it 'Kumbh'. In 2013, according to a recent book 'Kumbha: The Traditionally Modern Mela', one in 10 Indians attended the grand religious event. The state government expects the number to be higher this time. The Uttar Pradesh government has allocated Rs 4,200 crore for the Kumbh Mela, which is more than thrice the budget of the Maha Kumbh in 2013, making the mega pilgrimage perhaps the costliest ever. "The UP government has allocated Rs 4,200 crore for 2019 Kumbh Mela. The previous state government had spent around Rs 1,300 crore for the Maha Kumbh, which was held in 2013," state Finance Minister Rajesh Agarwal told PTI. The auspicious bathing days of the 2019 Kumbh Mela include Paush Poornima (January 21), Mauni Amawasya (February 4), Basant Panchami (February 10), Maghi Poornima (February 19) and Mahashivratri (March 4).

1.4 crore people take dip as Kumbh Mela begins in Prayagraj

Scores of devotees from across the country took a holy dip at Sangam Ghat on the occasion of Makar Sankranti in Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj on Monday.

Makara Sankranti or Maghi, is a festival day in the Hindu calendar, in reference to deity Surya.

The day marks the first day of sun's transit into the Makara, marking the end of the month with the winter solstice and the start of longer days.

According to local authorities, approximately 1 lakh 17 thousand people offered prayers to Akshay Vat, a sacred fig tree mentioned in the Hindu mythology in Prayagraj.

In the wake of Kumbh Mela, the local police is keeping a strong vigil and monitoring the regions adjoining the banks of river Ganga and its tributaries.

They have also restricted vehicular movement in Prayagraj roads due to a large footfall of tourists.

Moreover, the administration has taken the help of Non-Government Organisations (NGO's) and citizens in maintaining law and order.

"As per the order by the Director General of Police (DGP) to all the senior police officials in all the districts, it has been instructed to ensure that any sort of illegal industrial activity or waste should not be discharged into the Ganges and its tributaries including the Yamuna," Praveen Kumar, Inspector General (Law &amp; Order), Uttar-Pradesh Police had stated on January 10.

Kumbh is the largest human congregation in the world, with lakhs of pilgrims participating in the festival with the belief that taking a dip in the holy water of Ganges River will pave the way for their salvation and would rid them of their sins.

Scores of devotees from across the country took a holy dip at Sangam Ghat on the occasion of Makar Sankranti in Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj on Monday. Makara Sankranti or Maghi, is a festival day in the Hindu calendar, in reference to deity Surya.

Scores of devotees from across the country took a holy dip at Sangam Ghat on the occasion of Makar Sankranti in Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj on Monday. Makara Sankranti or Maghi, is a festival day in the Hindu calendar, in reference to deity Surya. The day marks the first day of sun's transit into the Makara, marking the end of the month with the winter solstice and the start of longer days. According to local authorities, approximately 1 lakh 17 thousand people offered prayers to Akshay Vat, a sacred fig tree mentioned in the Hindu mythology in Prayagraj. In the wake of Kumbh Mela, the local police is keeping a strong vigil and monitoring the regions adjoining the banks of river Ganga and its tributaries. They have also restricted vehicular movement in Prayagraj roads due to a large footfall of tourists. Moreover, the administration has taken the help of Non-Government Organisations (NGO's) and citizens in maintaining law and order. "As per the order by the Director General of Police (DGP) to all the senior police officials in all the districts, it has been instructed to ensure that any sort of illegal industrial activity or waste should not be discharged into the Ganges and its tributaries including the Yamuna," Praveen Kumar, Inspector General (Law & Order), Uttar-Pradesh Police had stated on January 10. Kumbh is the largest human congregation in the world, with lakhs of pilgrims participating in the festival with the belief that taking a dip in the holy water of Ganges River will pave the way for their salvation and would rid them of their sins.

Kumbh 2019: Devotees throng Sangam ghat in Prayagraj, security tightened

Watch: WION Your Story, 14th January, 2019

A gas cylinder exploded in a tent at the Kumbh Mela site in Prayagraj on Monday. The Kumbh begins on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The explosion led to a fire. There were however no injuries.

The explosion and the ensuing fire broke out at Digambar Ani Akhara.&nbsp;

Akhara police station inspector Bhaskar Mishra said there were no immediate reports of anyone being injured.

Firefighters were rushed to the spot.

Two vehicles and some other materials kept at the site were damaged in the fire, Mishra said.

The head of the Digambar Ani Akhada said the fire began in an adjoining tent and spread to their camp's kitchen, triggering the cylinder blast.

The police meanwhile have said they have put up "innovative technologies" for security.

"This Kumbh will witness the use of innovative technologies for security," Director General of Police (DGP) OP Singh said.

(With inputs from PTI)

A gas cylinder exploded in a tent at the Kumbh Mela site in Prayagraj on Monday. The Kumbh begins on Tuesday. The explosion led to a fire. There were however no injuries.

A gas cylinder exploded in a tent at the Kumbh Mela site in Prayagraj on Monday. The Kumbh begins on Tuesday. The explosion led to a fire. There were however no injuries. The explosion and the ensuing fire broke out at Digambar Ani Akhara. Akhara police station inspector Bhaskar Mishra said there were no immediate reports of anyone being injured. Firefighters were rushed to the spot. Two vehicles and some other materials kept at the site were damaged in the fire, Mishra said. The head of the Digambar Ani Akhada said the fire began in an adjoining tent and spread to their camp's kitchen, triggering the cylinder blast. The police meanwhile have said they have put up "innovative technologies" for security. "This Kumbh will witness the use of innovative technologies for security," Director General of Police (DGP) OP Singh said. (With inputs from PTI)

Watch: Day before it starts, fire breaks out at Kumbh Mela site

The week that was, in pictures

Terming it 'Akhada beyond sexuality', the head priest of Kinnar Akhada on Friday called their first-time participation at the Kumbh 2019 as a step forward towards acceptance in the society.

Kinnar Akhada Mahamandaleshwar, Acharya, Laxmi Narayan Tripathi exuded pride and confidence while talking of her Akhada's debut at this massive congregation of pilgrims and said, "For me, it is a wonderful situation to come to this divine Prayagraj Kumbh. For me, we are one of the most conservative societies in the world where the acceptance of the third gender is remarkably outstanding. For us, this participation is about mainstream society accepting us. This is Akhada beyond sexuality. The creator is within us and once we perish we will go back to him. Our doors are open for all."

Talking further about transgender issues and the modern scenario, she added, "Still the battle is on. We are sure that we will come across these hurdles. My community is striving to make its place in the mainstreams place whether it is art and culture, religion. We are here only to give unconditional love to all irrespective of creed, color or background."

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Prayagraj: 'Kinnar Akhara' is participating in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KumbhMela2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KumbhMela2019</a> for the first time. Pavitra, Secretary of 'Kinnar Akhara', says, “Public &amp; all the devotees who are here have supported us &amp; shown lot of respect for us. We are happy that people here have accepted us.” <a href="https://t.co/7cHRV8Bkkm">pic.twitter.com/7cHRV8Bkkm</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1083747078147268609?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Adding further to it, Pavitra, Secretary of Kinnar Akhada said, "I have been with the Kinnar Akhada since its formation. We were preparing for the last two years to participate in Prayagraj Kumbh. We met with administration and the concerned ministers to get land allocated for us to set up our camp at this Kumbh. We were very willing to be here and now that we have arrived, the general public and pilgrims have been very supportive. We can see respect and acceptance in everyone's eye for us and it really feels very good."

The Akhada reportedly also faced some protests for its distinct identity, speaking about which, she said, "Whenever there is some good initiative some people do object. There were objections on the name of Kinnar Akhada and other things. But we have been successful in leaving these challenges behind us and are looking forward to increased acceptance."

The Ardh Kumbh Mela at Prayagraj will commence from January 14 to March 3 at the Triveni Sangam - the holy confluence of river Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati.

Thousands of devotees are expected to arrive in the city to take a holy dip in Triveni Sangam.

Terming it 'Akhada beyond sexuality', the head priest of Kinnar Akhada on Friday called their first-time participation at the Kumbh 2019 as a step forward towards acceptance in the society.

Terming it 'Akhada beyond sexuality', the head priest of Kinnar Akhada on Friday called their first-time participation at the Kumbh 2019 as a step forward towards acceptance in the society. Kinnar Akhada Mahamandaleshwar, Acharya, Laxmi Narayan Tripathi exuded pride and confidence while talking of her Akhada's debut at this massive congregation of pilgrims and said, "For me, it is a wonderful situation to come to this divine Prayagraj Kumbh. For me, we are one of the most conservative societies in the world where the acceptance of the third gender is remarkably outstanding. For us, this participation is about mainstream society accepting us. This is Akhada beyond sexuality. The creator is within us and once we perish we will go back to him. Our doors are open for all." Talking further about transgender issues and the modern scenario, she added, "Still the battle is on. We are sure that we will come across these hurdles. My community is striving to make its place in the mainstreams place whether it is art and culture, religion. We are here only to give unconditional love to all irrespective of creed, color or background." Prayagraj: 'Kinnar Akhara' is participating in #KumbhMela2019 for the first time. Pavitra, Secretary of 'Kinnar Akhara', says, “Public & all the devotees who are here have supported us & shown lot of respect for us. We are happy that people here have accepted us.” pic.twitter.com/7cHRV8Bkkm — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) January 11, 2019 × Adding further to it, Pavitra, Secretary of Kinnar Akhada said, "I have been with the Kinnar Akhada since its formation. We were preparing for the last two years to participate in Prayagraj Kumbh. We met with administration and the concerned ministers to get land allocated for us to set up our camp at this Kumbh. We were very willing to be here and now that we have arrived, the general public and pilgrims have been very supportive. We can see respect and acceptance in everyone's eye for us and it really feels very good." The Akhada reportedly also faced some protests for its distinct identity, speaking about which, she said, "Whenever there is some good initiative some people do object. There were objections on the name of Kinnar Akhada and other things. But we have been successful in leaving these challenges behind us and are looking forward to increased acceptance." The Ardh Kumbh Mela at Prayagraj will commence from January 14 to March 3 at the Triveni Sangam - the holy confluence of river Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati. Thousands of devotees are expected to arrive in the city to take a holy dip in Triveni Sangam.

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Incredible Kumbh: The sacred city of Prayagraj gears up for the holy gathering

The Uttar Pradesh government has allotted Rs 4,300 crore for creating the infrastructure necessary to conduct the Kumbh Mela 2019, scheduled to begin from January 15, the state's Minister of Excise and Prohibition Jai Pratap Singh said here Saturday.

Participating in an event organised by trade body FICCI Tamil Nadu Council, he said, the Prayagraj (Allahabad) has UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage of humanity acknowledgement.

The Kumbh Mela is expected to witness an attendance over 20 lakh devotees, he said, adding the whole idea behind the event was to promote 'spiritual tourism'.

"The UP government is making efforts to familiarise the world with high-quality life, conduct and thoughts of Indian culture through the Kumbh Mela," he said.

Besides stepping up transportation connectivity for devotees to reach the Mela area, over 40,000 LED lights have been installed at the venue, he said&nbsp;

The Uttar Pradesh government has allotted Rs 4,300 crore for creating the infrastructure necessary to conduct the Kumbh Mela 2019, scheduled to begin from January 15, the state's Minister of Excise and Prohibition Jai Pratap Singh said here Saturday.

The Uttar Pradesh government has allotted Rs 4,300 crore for creating the infrastructure necessary to conduct the Kumbh Mela 2019, scheduled to begin from January 15, the state's Minister of Excise and Prohibition Jai Pratap Singh said here Saturday. Participating in an event organised by trade body FICCI Tamil Nadu Council, he said, the Prayagraj (Allahabad) has UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage of humanity acknowledgement. The Kumbh Mela is expected to witness an attendance over 20 lakh devotees, he said, adding the whole idea behind the event was to promote 'spiritual tourism'. "The UP government is making efforts to familiarise the world with high-quality life, conduct and thoughts of Indian culture through the Kumbh Mela," he said. Besides stepping up transportation connectivity for devotees to reach the Mela area, over 40,000 LED lights have been installed at the venue, he said

Rs 4,300 crore earmarked for creating infra for Kumbh Mela

The setting up of a new city in the huge <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rs-4300-crore-earmarked-for-creating-infra-for-kumbh-mela-188483">Mela area</a>, has 250 kilometre long roads and 22 pontoon bridges which will make it the largest temporary city of the world, informed Uttar Pradesh government on Monday while sharing details of the Prayagraj Kumbh.

It also informed that for the first time, the Mela area is being brightened up by installing over 40,000 LED lights there. UNESCO has already included Kumbh in the list of "Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity".

Uttar Pradesh government expects over 5000 NRIs to visit the Kumbh apart from people of over 6 lakh villages of India along with the overseas devotees will participate.

It is also for the first time in the last 450 years that the devotees coming to the Kumbh will have an opportunity to pray at 'Akshay Vat'&nbsp;and 'Sarasvati Koop'.

"The Kumbh is organised at Triveni Sangam, but it is related to entire Prayagraj area. Keeping this in view, the state government has beautified all the places directly or indirectly linked to the Kumbh. For convenience of devotees and tourists visiting the Kumbh, the facility of reaching there by air, road and river has been made for the first time", read a statement issued by the state government.

The state government had earmarked an amount of Rs&nbsp;2800 crore for Kumbh Mela-2019 along with the various projects of stable development.

Besides, works of stable development are being carried out at Kumbh Mela and Prayagraj with a total amount of Rs&nbsp;4300 crore from other budget.

During 2013 Kumbh held in Prayagraj an amount of Rs&nbsp;1,214 crore was spent. Ambassadors of about 71 countries have already witnessed the preparations for this grand event.

They have unfurled the national flag of their countries on the bank of Triveni in Kumbh Mela area. The state government also opined that the representatives of 192 countries will be visiting Kumbh in the month of February.

In order to boost security, the Kumbh Mela Area has been brought under the surveillance of Integrated Control and Command Centre and CCTV Cameras.

"Integrated Control and Command Centre of the smart city project has been dedicated to Prayagraj. The system will facilitate controlling and keeping safe the traffic movement and the crowd coming to Mela. There will be two Control and Command Centres under a scheme of about Rs&nbsp;247 crore in Prayagraj. Of these, one Control and Command Centre costing Rs&nbsp;116 crore has been completed and made functional,"&nbsp;said the government.

Earlier on January 4, the Air India has announced new flights to Prayagraj from Delhi, Ahmedabad and Kolkata.

These flights will help facilitate the movement of passengers during the Kumbh Mela 2019.

The flights are scheduled to operate from January 13 to March 30.

The Ardh Kumbh Mela will commence from January 14 to March 3 at the Triveni Sangam - the holy confluence of river Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati.

Thousands of devotees are expected to arrive in the city to take a holy dip in Triveni Sangam.

The setting up of a new city in the huge Mela area, has 250 kilometre long roads and 22 pontoon bridges which will make it the largest temporary city of the world, informed Uttar Pradesh government on Monday while sharing details of the Prayagraj Kumbh.

The setting up of a new city in the huge Mela area, has 250 kilometre long roads and 22 pontoon bridges which will make it the largest temporary city of the world, informed Uttar Pradesh government on Monday while sharing details of the Prayagraj Kumbh. It also informed that for the first time, the Mela area is being brightened up by installing over 40,000 LED lights there. UNESCO has already included Kumbh in the list of "Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity". Uttar Pradesh government expects over 5000 NRIs to visit the Kumbh apart from people of over 6 lakh villages of India along with the overseas devotees will participate. It is also for the first time in the last 450 years that the devotees coming to the Kumbh will have an opportunity to pray at 'Akshay Vat' and 'Sarasvati Koop'. "The Kumbh is organised at Triveni Sangam, but it is related to entire Prayagraj area. Keeping this in view, the state government has beautified all the places directly or indirectly linked to the Kumbh. For convenience of devotees and tourists visiting the Kumbh, the facility of reaching there by air, road and river has been made for the first time", read a statement issued by the state government. The state government had earmarked an amount of Rs 2800 crore for Kumbh Mela-2019 along with the various projects of stable development. Besides, works of stable development are being carried out at Kumbh Mela and Prayagraj with a total amount of Rs 4300 crore from other budget. During 2013 Kumbh held in Prayagraj an amount of Rs 1,214 crore was spent. Ambassadors of about 71 countries have already witnessed the preparations for this grand event. They have unfurled the national flag of their countries on the bank of Triveni in Kumbh Mela area. The state government also opined that the representatives of 192 countries will be visiting Kumbh in the month of February. In order to boost security, the Kumbh Mela Area has been brought under the surveillance of Integrated Control and Command Centre and CCTV Cameras. "Integrated Control and Command Centre of the smart city project has been dedicated to Prayagraj. The system will facilitate controlling and keeping safe the traffic movement and the crowd coming to Mela. There will be two Control and Command Centres under a scheme of about Rs 247 crore in Prayagraj. Of these, one Control and Command Centre costing Rs 116 crore has been completed and made functional," said the government. Earlier on January 4, the Air India has announced new flights to Prayagraj from Delhi, Ahmedabad and Kolkata. These flights will help facilitate the movement of passengers during the Kumbh Mela 2019. The flights are scheduled to operate from January 13 to March 30. The Ardh Kumbh Mela will commence from January 14 to March 3 at the Triveni Sangam - the holy confluence of river Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati. Thousands of devotees are expected to arrive in the city to take a holy dip in Triveni Sangam.

Kumbh 2019: Largest temporary city of world to have 250-kilometre long roads, 22 bridges

Ram Janmbhoomi Trust Chairman Mahant Nritya Gopal Das on Monday said construction of a<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/if-ram-temple-cant-be-built-during-bjp-govt-tenure-when-will-it-be-asks-shiv-sena-188068"> grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya </a>should start at the earliest and hopes of crores of devotees are with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to get this issue resolved.

He also said seers would take a "concrete decision" on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/whenever-ram-temple-is-built-in-ayodhya-it-will-be-by-us-yogi-adityanath-186043">the temple issue</a> at a 'Dharma Sansad' from January 31-February 1 during the 'Kumbh Mela'.

"The grand temple construction should start soon as hopes of crores of Ram bhakts (devotees) still are with Modi. The extension of dates by the Supreme Court is emotionally hurting Hindus, who feel it should be considered (by the court). For past 70 years, the matter is pending in courts. He should get justice now," Mahant said in a statement here.

The Supreme Court on Friday had said an "appropriate bench" on January 10 will fix the date of hearing in the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid land title dispute case.

On the same day, the court also dismissed a fresh plea that demanded an urgent hearing on a day-to-day basis in the Ayodhya land dispute matter.

The petition was PIL filed by advocate Harinath Ram, who had submitted that in view of the inordinate delay in the adjudication of the matter and in the prevailing sentiments surrounding, the Ayodhya land dispute matter should be given a hearing on priority.

"Not only us, but the entire Hindu community hopes that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will ensure that the matter is resolved and pay real tributes to 'karsewaks' (volunteers) killed by Mulayam Singh Yadav government in 1990," Mahant said.

On a call given by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), a large number of 'karsewaks' had assembled in Ayodhya near the disputed site and several of them lost lives after Yadav, then the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh ordered police firing on October 30, 1990.

Later, Yadav had said the decision to order police firing was 'painful', but he had no other option to maintain peace in the country.

Attacking the Congress and Babri mosque supporters for creating hurdles in the temple construction, the Mahant said, "I ask them not to waste time and money of Hindu community."

Ram Janmbhoomi Trust Chairman Mahant Nritya Gopal Das said seers would take a 'concrete decision' on the temple issue at a 'Dharma Sansad' from January 31-February 1 during the 'Kumbh Mela'.

Ram Janmbhoomi Trust Chairman Mahant Nritya Gopal Das on Monday said construction of a grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya should start at the earliest and hopes of crores of devotees are with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to get this issue resolved. He also said seers would take a "concrete decision" on the temple issue at a 'Dharma Sansad' from January 31-February 1 during the 'Kumbh Mela'. "The grand temple construction should start soon as hopes of crores of Ram bhakts (devotees) still are with Modi. The extension of dates by the Supreme Court is emotionally hurting Hindus, who feel it should be considered (by the court). For past 70 years, the matter is pending in courts. He should get justice now," Mahant said in a statement here. The Supreme Court on Friday had said an "appropriate bench" on January 10 will fix the date of hearing in the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid land title dispute case. On the same day, the court also dismissed a fresh plea that demanded an urgent hearing on a day-to-day basis in the Ayodhya land dispute matter. The petition was PIL filed by advocate Harinath Ram, who had submitted that in view of the inordinate delay in the adjudication of the matter and in the prevailing sentiments surrounding, the Ayodhya land dispute matter should be given a hearing on priority. "Not only us, but the entire Hindu community hopes that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will ensure that the matter is resolved and pay real tributes to 'karsewaks' (volunteers) killed by Mulayam Singh Yadav government in 1990," Mahant said. On a call given by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), a large number of 'karsewaks' had assembled in Ayodhya near the disputed site and several of them lost lives after Yadav, then the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh ordered police firing on October 30, 1990. Later, Yadav had said the decision to order police firing was 'painful', but he had no other option to maintain peace in the country. Attacking the Congress and Babri mosque supporters for creating hurdles in the temple construction, the Mahant said, "I ask them not to waste time and money of Hindu community."

Ram temple construction should start at earliest, delay 'emotionally hurting Hindus': Mahant

The Railways is likely to begin the commercial run of the much awaited <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/countrys-fastest-rail-train-18-pelted-with-stones-during-trial-run-185532">Train 18</a> between Delhi and Varanasi next week, just ahead of the Kumbh Mela in Allahabad which begins on January 14, sources said Wednesday.

It is also likely to be one of the four special trains to ferry delegates of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas on January 24 from the Kumbh Mela in Allahabad to the national capital in time for the Republic Day event.

The train which will run at a speed of 130 kmph will reduce the journey time between the two cities from the present 11 hours and 30 minutes to 8 hours, the Railways said.

"The train is 45 per cent faster than the fastest train on this route. It will be flagged off by the prime minister ahead of the Kumbh Mela," said the source.

While Railway Minister Piyush Goyal, who inspected the Train 18 rake, on Wednesday refused to give a date for the train's first run, he said it will "begin service soon".

Sources said a date will be finalised once the Railways gets a go-ahead from the PMO. While the train fare is not finalised yet, it is expected to include the cover of food. On its journey to Varanasi on its first run, it will have two stoppages - one at Kanpur and the other at Allahabad.

The Railways is likely to begin the commercial run of the much awaited Train 18 between Delhi and Varanasi next week, just ahead of the Kumbh Mela in Allahabad which begins on January 14, sources said Wednesday.

The Railways is likely to begin the commercial run of the much awaited Train 18 between Delhi and Varanasi next week, just ahead of the Kumbh Mela in Allahabad which begins on January 14, sources said Wednesday. It is also likely to be one of the four special trains to ferry delegates of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas on January 24 from the Kumbh Mela in Allahabad to the national capital in time for the Republic Day event. The train which will run at a speed of 130 kmph will reduce the journey time between the two cities from the present 11 hours and 30 minutes to 8 hours, the Railways said. "The train is 45 per cent faster than the fastest train on this route. It will be flagged off by the prime minister ahead of the Kumbh Mela," said the source. While Railway Minister Piyush Goyal, who inspected the Train 18 rake, on Wednesday refused to give a date for the train's first run, he said it will "begin service soon". Sources said a date will be finalised once the Railways gets a go-ahead from the PMO. While the train fare is not finalised yet, it is expected to include the cover of food. On its journey to Varanasi on its first run, it will have two stoppages - one at Kanpur and the other at Allahabad.

Railways to begin Train 18 services ahead of Kumbh Mela next week

A fortnight ahead of the 'Kumbh Mela', the Centre has approved the renaming of Allahabad as Prayagraj as sought by the Uttar Pradesh government, officials said Tuesday.

The decision came more than two months after the state government, headed by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, took the decision to rename the historic city as Prayagraj.

The central government has given its consent for renaming of Allahabad as Prayagraj about 10 days ago, a home ministry official said.

The 'Kumbh Mela' in Prayagraj will start on January 15 on 'Makar Sankranti' and will conclude on March 4 on 'Maha Shivaratri'.

The central government has given consent to the renaming of at least 25 towns and villages across the country in the past one year. The renaming proposal of UP's Faizabad district as Ayodhya is yet to be received from the state government.

A proposal to rename West Bengal as 'Bangla' is pending as the Ministry of External Affairs is understood to have expressed its reservation over the new name, as it sounds similar to Bangladesh. A decision in this regard is expected soon as the general election in the neighbouring country concluded on Sunday.&nbsp;

The Union Home Ministry considers the proposals of name change according to the existing guidelines in consultations with agencies concerned.&nbsp;

It gives its approval to the change of name of any place after taking no-objections from the Ministry of Railways, Department of Posts and Survey of India. These organisations have to confirm that there is no such city, town or village in their records with a name similar to the proposed one.

For changing the name of a village or town or a city, an executive order is needed. The renaming of a state requires amendment of the Constitution with a simple majority in Parliament.

A fortnight ahead of the 'Kumbh Mela', the Centre has approved the renaming of Allahabad as Prayagraj as sought by the Uttar Pradesh government, officials said Tuesday.

A fortnight ahead of the 'Kumbh Mela', the Centre has approved the renaming of Allahabad as Prayagraj as sought by the Uttar Pradesh government, officials said Tuesday. The decision came more than two months after the state government, headed by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, took the decision to rename the historic city as Prayagraj. The central government has given its consent for renaming of Allahabad as Prayagraj about 10 days ago, a home ministry official said. The 'Kumbh Mela' in Prayagraj will start on January 15 on 'Makar Sankranti' and will conclude on March 4 on 'Maha Shivaratri'. The central government has given consent to the renaming of at least 25 towns and villages across the country in the past one year. The renaming proposal of UP's Faizabad district as Ayodhya is yet to be received from the state government. A proposal to rename West Bengal as 'Bangla' is pending as the Ministry of External Affairs is understood to have expressed its reservation over the new name, as it sounds similar to Bangladesh. A decision in this regard is expected soon as the general election in the neighbouring country concluded on Sunday. The Union Home Ministry considers the proposals of name change according to the existing guidelines in consultations with agencies concerned. It gives its approval to the change of name of any place after taking no-objections from the Ministry of Railways, Department of Posts and Survey of India. These organisations have to confirm that there is no such city, town or village in their records with a name similar to the proposed one. For changing the name of a village or town or a city, an executive order is needed. The renaming of a state requires amendment of the Constitution with a simple majority in Parliament.

Centre approves renaming of Allahabad as Prayagraj

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-is-pulling-its-citizens-out-of-poverty-at-a-record-pace-pm-modi-in-mann-ki-baat-187307">Prime Minister Narendra Modi </a>Sunday said he hoped sanitation will be maintained along with reverence at Kumbh Mela in January, saying it will send a positive message far and wide.

In his monthly <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bapu-had-a-special-connection-with-south-africa-pm-in-last-mann-ki-baat-of-2018-187317">'Mann ki Baat' radio address</a>, last this year, he said this time much emphasis is being laid on cleanliness during Kumbh.&nbsp;

"If during the course of this event sanitation prevails along with reverence, then it will lead to a positive message reaching far and wide," the Prime Minister said.

He said, Kumbh Mela is also a huge medium of self-discovery, where every visitor experiences a unique feeling and learns to look at the worldly things from a spiritual perspective.&nbsp;

"This can be a huge learning experience especially for the youth," he felt.

The Kumbh Mela will commence from January 15 at Prayagraj.

The Mela draws lakhs of pilgrims over the course of approximately 55 auspicious days to bathe at the sacred confluence of the Ganga, the Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati.

Referring to Republic Day celebrations, the PM said this time South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will be the chief guest as India also celebrates the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.&nbsp;

"Our revered Bapu and South Africa shared an unbreakable bond. It was South Africa, where Mohan (Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi) transformed into the 'Mahatma'. It was in South Africa, where Mahatma Gandhi had started his first Satyagraha and stood rock steady in protest of apartheid," Modi said.&nbsp;

He also said that at times when government organisations are described as a 'regulators', Food Safety and Standard Authority of India has been working beyond this brief for public awareness and public education.&nbsp;

It has launched a campaign on promoting good eating or safe and healthy diet habits.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday said he hoped sanitation will be maintained along with reverence at Kumbh Mela in January, saying it will send a positive message far and wide.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday said he hoped sanitation will be maintained along with reverence at Kumbh Mela in January, saying it will send a positive message far and wide. In his monthly 'Mann ki Baat' radio address, last this year, he said this time much emphasis is being laid on cleanliness during Kumbh. "If during the course of this event sanitation prevails along with reverence, then it will lead to a positive message reaching far and wide," the Prime Minister said. He said, Kumbh Mela is also a huge medium of self-discovery, where every visitor experiences a unique feeling and learns to look at the worldly things from a spiritual perspective. "This can be a huge learning experience especially for the youth," he felt. The Kumbh Mela will commence from January 15 at Prayagraj. The Mela draws lakhs of pilgrims over the course of approximately 55 auspicious days to bathe at the sacred confluence of the Ganga, the Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati. Referring to Republic Day celebrations, the PM said this time South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will be the chief guest as India also celebrates the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. "Our revered Bapu and South Africa shared an unbreakable bond. It was South Africa, where Mohan (Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi) transformed into the 'Mahatma'. It was in South Africa, where Mahatma Gandhi had started his first Satyagraha and stood rock steady in protest of apartheid," Modi said. He also said that at times when government organisations are described as a 'regulators', Food Safety and Standard Authority of India has been working beyond this brief for public awareness and public education. It has launched a campaign on promoting good eating or safe and healthy diet habits.

Hope sanitation prevails along with reverence: PM Modi on Kumbh Mela

To facilitate pilgrims arriving in large numbers during the Kumbh Mela in 2019, the railways has proposed running 800 special trains from various stations of Allahabad district, an official has said. These trains would be in addition to the regular trains run by the North Central Railway (NCR).

PRO NCR Amit Malviya said, “Six special trains will come to Allahabad from different railway zones of the country for pilgrims and tourists participating in the Kumbh Mela.” He said the railways planned to operate four to five special trains to ferry 5,000 Pravasi Bhartiyas from Allahabad to New Delhi. They will be in Allahabad to participate in the Kumbh Mela after attending the Pravasi Bhartiya Divas at Varanasi.

The Pravasi Bhartiyas will be taken to New Delhi for Republic Day celebrations. He also said branding of the Kumbh Mela will be done on 1,400 coaches of special trains and the originating trains of the NCR by vinyl wrapping, to take the message about the religious fair across the country.

The coaches will have colourful and attractive images of Kumbh Mela and landmark structures of Allahabad. “The railways have given space for ‘Paint My City’ initiative at its stations and residential colonies which is another big branding exercise for the Kumbh Mela,” Malviya said.

He also said that to promote local culture, the North Central Zone Cultural Centre (NCZCC), under the Ministry of Culture, will be co-opted to put up stalls in passenger enclosures showcasing the art, culture and heritage of Allahabad and surrounding areas.

“Four big enclosures to house about 10,000 pilgrims have been constructed at Allahabad Junction railway station. These will have vending stalls, water booths and ticket counters, LCD TVs, public address system, CCTV cameras and separate toilets blocks for men and women. Similar passenger enclosures have also been built at other stations,” the PRO said.

To facilitate pilgrims arriving in large numbers during the Kumbh Mela in 2019, the railways has proposed running 800 special trains from various stations of Allahabad district, an official has said.

To facilitate pilgrims arriving in large numbers during the Kumbh Mela in 2019, the railways has proposed running 800 special trains from various stations of Allahabad district, an official has said. These trains would be in addition to the regular trains run by the North Central Railway (NCR). PRO NCR Amit Malviya said, “Six special trains will come to Allahabad from different railway zones of the country for pilgrims and tourists participating in the Kumbh Mela.” He said the railways planned to operate four to five special trains to ferry 5,000 Pravasi Bhartiyas from Allahabad to New Delhi. They will be in Allahabad to participate in the Kumbh Mela after attending the Pravasi Bhartiya Divas at Varanasi. The Pravasi Bhartiyas will be taken to New Delhi for Republic Day celebrations. He also said branding of the Kumbh Mela will be done on 1,400 coaches of special trains and the originating trains of the NCR by vinyl wrapping, to take the message about the religious fair across the country. The coaches will have colourful and attractive images of Kumbh Mela and landmark structures of Allahabad. “The railways have given space for ‘Paint My City’ initiative at its stations and residential colonies which is another big branding exercise for the Kumbh Mela,” Malviya said. He also said that to promote local culture, the North Central Zone Cultural Centre (NCZCC), under the Ministry of Culture, will be co-opted to put up stalls in passenger enclosures showcasing the art, culture and heritage of Allahabad and surrounding areas. “Four big enclosures to house about 10,000 pilgrims have been constructed at Allahabad Junction railway station. These will have vending stalls, water booths and ticket counters, LCD TVs, public address system, CCTV cameras and separate toilets blocks for men and women. Similar passenger enclosures have also been built at other stations,” the PRO said.

Railways to run 800 special trains for Kumbh Mela pilgrims

The Ministry of External Affairs and Uttar Pradesh government hosted 72 heads of mission, Ambassadors and High Commissioners, on Saturday in Prayagraj. The visit was to showcase the preparedness for grand Kumbha Mela that is to be organised in the city in January.&nbsp;

Prayagraj Ardh Kumbh Mela 2019 will take place at Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh from 15th January to March 2019. Minister of State, External Affairs General V K Singh led the delegation of diplomats.

Speaking to WION, Dean of Diplomatic Corps Hans Dannenberg Castellanos, said, "The visit was extremely well prepared and organised by the UP government as well as the MEA. Kudos to the chief of protocol, MEA MOS General VK Singh, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj for having the vision for this group visit by the head of mission to go to Kumbh Mela and personally experience what so many of our citizens come to India to experience."

Dean of the diplomatic corps is the representative of the diplomatic missions, a person who deals with the government on behalf of the diplomatic community of a country. Dean of the diplomatic corps is an ambassador of a particular country. Frank Hans Dannenberg Castellanos is the Ambassador of Dominican Republic to India.

He said all heads of mission were satisfied and "staff of MEA went above and beyond the call of duty in making this visit a successful one." He added that the visit will "bring more confidence in travellers from our country when they visit here (Kumbh Mela). When they ask our embassy for an opinion if they should go to Kumbh. UP govt is working with central govt to better develop the facility, to better develop the area."

Castellanos thanked Prime Minister Modi and said that "it was a personal decision of him to make sure that we as heads of mission posted in India have this experience."

The Kumbh Mela was inscribed on the list of “Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity” by UNESCO in 2017.

Meanwhile, Minister of State, External Affairs VK Singh, speaking to reporters after the visit, said the reaction of the ambassadors and high commissioners was a "positive one" and the ministry was able to "clarify all concerns on safety and security." The basic purpose of the visit, he said, was to "showcase the preparations that go into Kumbh Mela preparations."

The Ministry of External Affairs and Uttar Pradesh government hosted 72 heads of mission, Ambassadors and High Commissioners, on Saturday in Prayagraj. The visit was to showcase the preparedness for grand Kumbha Mela that is to be organised in the city in January.

The Ministry of External Affairs and Uttar Pradesh government hosted 72 heads of mission, Ambassadors and High Commissioners, on Saturday in Prayagraj. The visit was to showcase the preparedness for grand Kumbha Mela that is to be organised in the city in January. Prayagraj Ardh Kumbh Mela 2019 will take place at Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh from 15th January to March 2019. Minister of State, External Affairs General V K Singh led the delegation of diplomats. Speaking to WION, Dean of Diplomatic Corps Hans Dannenberg Castellanos, said, "The visit was extremely well prepared and organised by the UP government as well as the MEA. Kudos to the chief of protocol, MEA MOS General VK Singh, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj for having the vision for this group visit by the head of mission to go to Kumbh Mela and personally experience what so many of our citizens come to India to experience." Dean of the diplomatic corps is the representative of the diplomatic missions, a person who deals with the government on behalf of the diplomatic community of a country. Dean of the diplomatic corps is an ambassador of a particular country. Frank Hans Dannenberg Castellanos is the Ambassador of Dominican Republic to India. He said all heads of mission were satisfied and "staff of MEA went above and beyond the call of duty in making this visit a successful one." He added that the visit will "bring more confidence in travellers from our country when they visit here (Kumbh Mela). When they ask our embassy for an opinion if they should go to Kumbh. UP govt is working with central govt to better develop the facility, to better develop the area." Castellanos thanked Prime Minister Modi and said that "it was a personal decision of him to make sure that we as heads of mission posted in India have this experience." The Kumbh Mela was inscribed on the list of “Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity” by UNESCO in 2017. Meanwhile, Minister of State, External Affairs VK Singh, speaking to reporters after the visit, said the reaction of the ambassadors and high commissioners was a "positive one" and the ministry was able to "clarify all concerns on safety and security." The basic purpose of the visit, he said, was to "showcase the preparations that go into Kumbh Mela preparations."

Heads of missions visit Prayagraj to witness Kumbh Mela preparations

India promotes Kumbh fair as world event

72 envoys in  in India's Prayagraj for branding of Kumbh Mela

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi to discuss the arrangements for the upcoming Kumbh Mela festival to be held in Prayagraj (earlier Allahabad).

The 45-day festival will start on January 15, 2019. Millions of Hindu devotees attend the mela with the belief that taking a dip in the waters of the holy river will cleanse them of their sins.&nbsp;

The Chief Minister also discussed the preparations for upcoming 'Pravasi Bhartiya Diwas' which will be held in Varanasi in January with the Indian diaspora and will provide them with the opportunity to participate in 'Kumbha Snan' and also attend the Republic Day parade in the National Capital.&nbsp;

Organised by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in association with the Uttar Pradesh government, the theme of the 15th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is "Role of Indian Diaspora in building a New India".

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi to discuss the arrangements for the upcoming Kumbh Mela festival to be held in Prayagraj (earlier Allahabad).

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi to discuss the arrangements for the upcoming Kumbh Mela festival to be held in Prayagraj (earlier Allahabad). The 45-day festival will start on January 15, 2019. Millions of Hindu devotees attend the mela with the belief that taking a dip in the waters of the holy river will cleanse them of their sins. The Chief Minister also discussed the preparations for upcoming 'Pravasi Bhartiya Diwas' which will be held in Varanasi in January with the Indian diaspora and will provide them with the opportunity to participate in 'Kumbha Snan' and also attend the Republic Day parade in the National Capital. Organised by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in association with the Uttar Pradesh government, the theme of the 15th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is "Role of Indian Diaspora in building a New India".

Yogi Adityanath meets PM Modi to discuss arrangements for 'Kumbh Mela'

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday hinted that if a broad consensus is achieved, 'Allahabad will be renamed as Prayagraj.'

Yogi said, "It might be the wish of many people that Allahabad can be renamed as Prayagraj. I think that it will give a very good message. If everyone agrees, we should know this city as Prayag Raj and it can be a good start".

According to some media reports, the banners for the upcoming Kumbh Mela in 2019 mention the name of the city as Prayagraj instead of Allahabad.

Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government might rechristen Allahabad as Prayagraj before next year's Kumbh Mela.

Kumbh Mela will begin in Allahabad on January 15, 2019.&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday hinted that if a broad consensus is achieved, 'Allahabad will be renamed as Prayagraj.' Yogi said, "It might be the wish of many people that Allahabad can be renamed as Prayagraj.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday hinted that if a broad consensus is achieved, 'Allahabad will be renamed as Prayagraj.' Yogi said, "It might be the wish of many people that Allahabad can be renamed as Prayagraj. I think that it will give a very good message. If everyone agrees, we should know this city as Prayag Raj and it can be a good start". According to some media reports, the banners for the upcoming Kumbh Mela in 2019 mention the name of the city as Prayagraj instead of Allahabad. Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government might rechristen Allahabad as Prayagraj before next year's Kumbh Mela. Kumbh Mela will begin in Allahabad on January 15, 2019.

UP CM Yogi Adityanath says Allahabad's name likely to be changed to Prayagraj

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