LUCKNOW: Kinnar Akhada on Friday took part in the Kumbh 2019 For the first time ever. Terming it 'Akhada beyond sexuality', the head priest of called their first-time participation as a step forward towards aceeptance in the society. Participating at the massive congregation of pilgrims, Kinnar Akhada Mahamandaleshwar, Acharya, Laxmi Narayan Tripathi exhumed pride and confidence while talking of her Akhada's debut 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."

Laxmi Narayan Tripathi 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."

The Akhada reportedly also faced some protests for its distinct identity. 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.

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.”

Adding further to it, “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. "

(ANI inputs)