NEW DELHI: Uttar Pradesh deputy chief minister Brajesh Pathak took a veiled swipe at Samajwadi Party supremo Akhilesh Yadav, after Yadav’s holy dip at the Triveni Sangam during the Maha Kumbh at Prayagraj, remarking, “better late than never.”
“Better late than never. He witnessed the wave of faith today,” Pathak told ANI. “He should refrain from unnecessary comments. Sanatan is for everyone, and the arrangements here are excellent. He saw first-hand how people from around the world gather here.”
Earlier, Akhilesh Yadav, after taking 11 holy dips at the sacred site, highlighted the importance of preserving the Kumbh Mela‘s spiritual essence. Addressing reporters, Yadav said, “This is a place of faith, not divisive or negative politics. The day I took a dip at Haridwar was a festival, and today I had the privilege of experiencing the same here.”
However, the SP supremo targeted the administration for inadequate arrangements for elderly pilgrims, saying, “The event should not be treated like a sports competition. Older devotees are facing difficulties, and better management is necessary to ensure a seamless experience for all.”
BJP leader Pathak dismissed Yadav’s remarks, urging him to avoid “unnecessary comments” and focus on the shared faith and unity the event represents.
He also spoke about Union home minister Amit Shah’s upcoming visit to Prayagraj on Monday. “We are excited to welcome Amit Shah ji, who has inspired the country’s youth and shown immense love for the people of Uttar Pradesh. On behalf of 25 crore people, I thank him,” Pathak said.
According to an official statement, Shah is scheduled to arrive in Prayagraj at 11:25 AM and will take a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam. His itinerary includes visits to the Bade Hanuman Ji Temple, Abhayvat, and Juna Akhara, where he will meet saints and have lunch with them. Shah will also visit Guru Sharananand Ji’s Ashram and meet prominent religious leaders, including Shankaracharyas from Sringeri, Puri, and Dwaraka.
The Maha Kumbh, held every 12 years, is set to take place from January 13 to February 26, 2025, in Prayagraj. Rooted in Sanatan Dharma, the event represents a celestial alignment that ushers in an auspicious period for spiritual cleansing and devotion.
With over 45 crore visitors expected, the Maha Kumbh 2025 is poised to be a historic occasion.
