Nashik, Oct 31: President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday said the Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Simhastha Maha Kumbh will connect India’s ancient heritage with modern dimensions and provide an excellent opportunity to familiarise the younger generation with the country’s rich cultural and spiritual values.
Addressing a ceremony marking the flag-hoisting and commencement of preparations for the mass religious congregation, Murmu said the centuries-old Kumbh tradition is a living example of India’s cultural and spiritual unity and continuity.
“The Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Simhastha Maha Kumbh 2027 will connect our ancient heritage with modern dimensions. This event will provide an excellent opportunity to connect the younger generation with India’s great heritage and values,” she said.
The President said the Kumbh gatherings in Nashik on the banks of the Godavari, Prayagraj on the Ganga, and Ujjain on the Shipra river are famous across the world.
Organisation of such gatherings over centuries is proof of the strength of India’s ancient, historical, cultural, social and spiritual traditions, she said.
These gatherings by countless devotees are a living example of the country’s cultural and spiritual unity and continuity, and they demonstrate faith and social harmony, Murmu said.
The President also expressed concern over extreme weather conditions and drought-like situations in several parts of the country, including Maharashtra, which have affected farmers.
The Centre and state governments are making efforts to address the problems and provide assistance, particularly to farmers, she said.
Appealing to people to protect the environment, Murmu said cleanliness and environmental sensitivity should receive greater attention.
“I appeal to all citizens to make continuous efforts at individual and collective levels for environmental protection,” she said.
She expressed hope that the Maha Kumbh would set an example in cleanliness and waste management through effective administration and public participation.
Earlier in the day, she performed the ‘dhwajarohan’ (flag hoisting) ceremony to mark the commencement of the Kumbh Mela. She hoisted the religious flag after performing rituals at Ramkund on the banks of the Godavari.
The President later went to Trimbakeshwar, where she performed ‘dhwajapujan’ (flag worship) at Kushavarta Tirtha. She also performed Gautami Ganga Godavari pujan, special Arghya offering and Godavari Aarti.
The Simhastha Kumbh Mela will conclude on February 27, 2028, in Trimbakeshwar, and on July 24, 2028, in Ramkund.
