CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: A Mahakumbh Conclave was held at the Bhopal campus of the Central Sanskrit University, marking the 19th Roundtable Session. The event was presided over by Dr. Ramakant Pandey, Director of the Bhopal campus, Madhya Pradesh.

In his presidential address, Dr. Pandey emphasized the significance of Mahakumbh since the Vedic period, referencing discussions in the Khil Sukt of the Rigveda. He noted that Indian culture, which bridges spirituality and society, has always celebrated the confluence of rivers. He cited Mahabharata and Harshacharitam to highlight the cultural and spiritual relevance of Ganga and Mahakumbh. He also mentioned UNESCO’s 2017 recognition of the Kumbh Mela as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and announced the next Mahakumbh from January 13 to February 26, 2025, in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.

The keynote speaker, Dr. Dhananjay Choudhary from Allahabad University, described Kumbh as extraordinary, unparalleled, and a congregation of cultural diversity. He called it a celebration of humanity, highlighting the spiritual and cultural integration it represents. He noted that the Prayagraj Kalpavas embodies an energy exchange and said Kumbh is deeply ingrained in India’s heritage and aspirations.

Amitabh Pandey, Director of IGRMS, Ministry of Culture, and Chief Guest of the event, defined Kumbh as an example of living culture. He described it as a spiritual epicenter, a confluence of faith, and a platform for cultural diversity, emphasizing that even VIP culture dissolves at the Kumbh Mela.

Harsvardhan Tripathi, a senior journalist, called for reviving the tradition of Shastrarth (philosophical debates) at Kumbh, rooted in the teachings of Sage Bharadwaj. Dr. Neelabh Tiwari, Co-Director of the Bhopal campus, stressed the environmental importance of Mahakumbh, advocating for green initiatives like “One Bag, One Plate” and promoting societal awareness.

The event began with a welcome by Dr. Subodh Sharma and concluded with a vote of thanks from Dr. Bharat Bhushan Mishra, who highlighted the astrological significance of Mahakumbh. Saurabh Pandey was the chief coordinator, and the program was efficiently conducted by Kripashankar Sharma.

The event witnessed the active participation of faculty members, research scholars, and staff, ending with the recitation of the “Kalyan Mantra.”

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