Pakistani Hindu pilgrims experience Maha Kumbh for the first time

A group of 68 Hindu devotees from Sindh province in Pakistan has arrived at the Maha Kumbh, drawn by the allure of the sacred gathering they've seen on social media. For nearly 50 of them, this marks their first experience of the Maha Kumbh. Gobind Ram Makhija, one of the visitors, expressed their anticipation, explaining that ever since they heard about the event a few months ago, they've been eager to participate.

Recounting a previous pilgrimage, Makhija mentioned that a group of 250 Pakistanis visited Prayagraj last year for the holy dip in the Ganga. This time, the visitors are from six districts in Sindh: Ghotki, Sukkur, Khairpur, Shikarpur, Karzakot, and Jatabal, many of whom are experiencing the Maha Kumbh for the first time.

Makhija shared his joy in being part of the event, stating, "This is an incredible experience. Tomorrow, we will take a dip in the Ganga. Being here makes me proud to have been born into Sanatan Dharma." Surbhi, a student from Ghotki, is visiting India for the first time and expressed her excitement about deepening her understanding of her religion. Priyanka from Sindh, a homemaker, described her visit as the greatest blessing of her life, noting the portrayal of Hindus in Sindh doesn't match her experience.

Niranjan Chawla, a construction worker from Sukkur, commented on the Citizenship Amendment Act, explaining that while Sindh does not face significant challenges, areas like Pakistan's Rajasthan do. Chawla highlighted the lengthy visa process, urging simplification. He appreciated the smooth visa approval granted to their group this time, expressing gratitude to the Indian government.

The group plans to visit Raipur on February 8, followed by Haridwar, where they will immerse ashes of their deceased loved ones. They will also visit Akharas in the evening to seek blessings and explore the fair.

The Maha Kumbh, ongoing since January 13, will run until February 26. Two significant bathing dates remain: February 12 (Maghi Purnima) and February 26 (Mahashivratri). By Thursday noon, over 57 lakh pilgrims had participated, with nearly 39 crore people having taken the holy bath, as reported by the Uttar Pradesh government hosting the event.