'Ghar Wapsi' At Kumbh Mela 2025? Hindu Seer's Comment On Conversion Sparks Controversy

Mahant Ravindra Puri of the Akhil Bharatiya Akhada Parishad has said that hundreds of non-Hindus will be brought back into the folds of Hinduism through his organisation at the Kumbh Mela.

Mahant Ravindra Puri of the Akhil Bharatiya Akhada Parishad.

Source : मोहम्मद मोईन

Maha Kumbh 2025: The Maha Kumbh 2025 being held in Prayagraj is now in the middle of a controversy over "ghar wapsi" or religious conversion. Islamic cleric Maulana Shahabuddin Barelvi has aired his concerns over "large-scale conversion of Muslims". Reacting to this Hindu priest and mahant of Ravindra Puri of the Akhil Bharatiya Akhada Parishad has responded. He said that through the Akhada, those who are not Sanatanis will be brought back home if they wish to do so.  

In an interaction with ABP News, Mahant Ravindra Puri said that hundreds of 'non-Sanatanis' will be converted through his Akhada at the Maha Kumbh. "They will return to the Sanatan Dharma of their own free will," Mahant Ravindra Puri said, refuting allegations of forced conversions. He further said that Maulana Shahabuddin Barelvi is an "agent of extremist forces".

The Maha Kumbh will be held from January 13-26.

Niranjani Akhada's Procession To Be Held Today

The Niranjani Akhada's entry procession entry is being held on Saturday at the Maha Kumbh. Hundreds of Naga saints of the Akhada are walking in the procession, smearing themselves completely with ash and displaying weapons. Many Naga sadhus will be riding elephants, horses and camels. 

Bands have been called from about a dozen states of the country to take part in the processions. Saturday's procession will be led by Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Swami Kailashanand. The procession will include the Akhada's Mahamandaleshwar and former Union Minister Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti. The procession aims to showcase the grandeur of Sanatan Dharm. 

According to the Akhada's secretary and Shri Mahant Ravindra Puri, this procession will promote the message of unity in the country. People of other religions who respect Sanatan will also participate in this procession. The saints will be welcomed with flower showers at various places along the way.

Maha Kumbh At Republic Day Parade

As per sources in the state government, Uttar Pradesh will have its own tableau at the Republic Day parade. The tableau will showcase the grandeur of Maha Kumbh. It will feature the 'amrit kalash' as well as the digital aspects of the event incorporated this year.