A Sacred Pilgrimage: My Spiritual Journey to Kumbh 2081

By Aryan Rana, Founder VRIGHTPATH

Two years ago, I embarked on a ten-day pilgrimage with my family, visiting the sacred cities of Kashi, Ayodhya, Prayagraj, Chitrakoot, Sarda Shakti Peeth, Mahadeshwar, and Omkareshwar. Taking a holy dip in the Ganga, Saryu, and Narmada rivers had a profound impact on my spirituality, awakening a sense of renewal and self-discovery. I realized that true cleansing happens within—the soul, not just the body, takes the holy dip.

In Kumbh 2025, I had the privilege of taking another holy dip with my family, alongside 66 crore devotees who participated in the Amrit Snaan in the 45 days long mega event was held in Pryagraj Uttar Pradesh. Our pilgrimage spanned nine days, beginning on the auspicious muhurat of January 31, 2025 from Mumbai. By the grace of God, we comfortably reached Prayagraj on February 1, where we roamed freely around the ghats, admiring the ecstatic views and divine beauty. We also had the darshan of Naga Sadhus and other revered saints.

On the third day, we took a holy bath at the Triveni Sangam during the Brahma Muhurta. After this sacred ritual, we conducted an Havan ceremony for the souls of those who perished in the stampedes and prayed for the recovery of the injured. The experience was truly humbling and spiritually uplifting.

Following this, we traveled to Kashi Vishwanath, where we took another holy dip at the ghats and performed a Havan on the banks of the Ganges on the fourth day. The city, known as the most ancient spiritual hub, was immensely crowded that day. Instead of waiting in long queues, we proceeded to Ayodhya for the darshan of Ram Lalla. Seeing the divine idol of Ram Lalla moved me to tears. Just two years ago when we visited for the first time, he was housed in a tent, and now, witnessing him in his grand temple was an indescribable experience.

At Ayodhya, we also took a holy dip at the Saryu River Ghat and sought blessings at Hanuman Garhi, which, like the rest of the city, was densely packed with devotees. We further visited Dashrath Mahal, Kanak Bhavan, and Sita Mata Rasoi, immersing ourselves in the spiritual essence of Ayodhya.

Our journey then led us to Chitrakoot, where we bathed in the Mandakini River at Ram Ghat and performed another Havan. We also visited Sati Anusuya Ashram before celebrating my daughter Manya’s 10th birthday in this holy city. I would like to thank the members of my sister family family Rudra, Mansavi, Manya and my wife and

Contrary to expectations of large crowds, heavy traffic, and logistical challenges, our pilgrimage was smooth and hassle-free. We are deeply grateful to our Pitra Devta, Kul Devi, and Devta—Mata Surkanda and Narsingh Devta—for their divine blessings that made this journey a truly remarkable and unforgettable spiritual experience.

Media Controversies Diverting Attention from Kumbh Mela

Despite the immense spiritual significance of the Kumbh Mela, recent controversies have shifted focus. The media’s intense coverage of "IIT Baba" stems from his unique blend of modern education and traditional spirituality. His viral interviews, social media discussions, and expulsion from the Juna Akhada have kept him in the headlines.

The stampede on Mauni Amavasya, involving millions of devotees, raised serious safety concerns. Similarly, model Harsha Richhariya’s participation in an Akhada procession sparked controversy over the sanctity of the event. Additionally, arrests were made over offensive social media remarks about the Kumbh and Hindu deities.

While controversies dominate the news, the Kumbh Mela remains a profound symbol of faith and spirituality. Millions of devotees continue to participate in this sacred pilgrimage, reaffirming that its true essence far surpasses the momentary distractions caused by media focus on controversies.

Kumbh Mela: Beyond a Religious Gathering

The Kumbh Mela is not just a religious congregation but a platform to address larger societal and global challenges. It embodies the essence of dharma as an ongoing quest for truth, encouraging self-inquiry and spiritual purification rather than blind faith.

Key Aspects of Kumbh Mela

Historical Significance: Originating millennia ago as a forum for saints to discuss dharma, Kumbh has evolved into a grand human gathering, recognized by UNESCO in 2017 as an Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Reverence for Nature: Rooted in Hindu tradition, it reinforces the sacredness of nature, as expressed in the Atharva Veda: Mata Prithvi; Putroham Prithvyah—“Earth is my mother, I am her child.”
Addressing Modern Challenges: The Mela offers a stage for discussions on global issues like climate change and economic disparity, positioning India as a guide through Eastern wisdom.
Deep Cleansing: A holy dip should instill inner purification, fostering peace, compassion, and alignment with Sanatan Dharma’s universal principles.

Comments

Twenty years of Sachin, 20 best knocks

* 1. 114 vs Australia in Perth Test (1991-92): Acknowledged by the master himself as one of his very best Test efforts when, as an 18-year-old, he tackled Australia’s best on a fiery strip with confidence and composure. * 2. 169 vs South Africa in Cape Town Test (1996-97): Routed for 100 and 66 in the previous Test in Durban, India needed a special from Tendulkar to save batting face, and the skipper responded with a telling assault on Donald, Klusener, McMillan and company. * 3. 136 vs Pakistan in Chennai Test (1998-99): A true epic scored as he battled a cripping back injury and an inspired Saqlain Mushtaq. Almost took India to victory, but when he fell with glory beckoning, the bottom fell out. And Tendulkar cried, inconsolably. * 4. 143 & 134 vs Australia in Sharjah (1997-98): Two knocks separated by a day, but completely interlinked. The first turbo-charged India to the final, the second destroyed Australia in the final. * 5. 175 vs Australia in Hyderabad (2009): India were ch...

103 not out vs England at Chennai 2008

Scoring a hundred in a successful fourth innings run chase was according to Tendulkar himself something he had wanted, the one achievement missing from his CV. Little wonder then that he rated this innings as ``up there’’ and ``one of the best’’ among all his hundreds. And it was no ordinary run chase as India were set a target of 387 – the highest successful attempt in a Test in Asia and the fifth highest in all Tests. The first of the two- match series started with England scoring 316 to which India replied with 241. With Andrew Strauss getting his second hundred of the match Kevin Pietersen was able to declare at 311 for nine late on the penultimate day leaving India a tough task. Virender Sehwag led the way with 83 off 68 balls with 11 fours and four sixes but the fall of Gautam Gambhir, Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman at regular intervals on the final morning put some pressure on the Indians. When Yuvraj Singh joined Tendulkar India were 163 runs away from their target and England se...

Respect Sanatan Culture: 10 Things Every Sanatani Must Know

By VRight Path ॐ गं गणपतये नमः In today’s fast-paced and globalized world, it's easy to unknowingly adopt words, habits, and concepts that may contradict the values of our timeless Sanatan Dharma. It’s important for every follower of this ancient tradition to understand and preserve the depth and dignity of our culture. Here are some essential points that every Sanatani should know and remember: 1. Say “Bhagwan Ram” or “Bhagwan Krishna” – Not “Lord” Ask yourself: Were Bhagwan Ram or Bhagwan Krishna ever members of England’s “House of Lords”? Then why use the title “Lord”? The English term does not carry the same spiritual reverence as the word “Bhagwan,” which signifies divinity and supreme consciousness in Sanatan Dharma. Let’s use our own respectful expressions: Bhagwan Shri Ram , Bhagwan Shri Krishna . 2. Avoid Saying “RIP” The phrase Rest In Peace (RIP) originates from burial customs and assumes the soul rests at one place. ...

155 not out vs Australia at Chennai 1998

It was the first Test of the three-match series and it was being billed as a contest between Tendulkar and Shane Warne – the best batsman in the world against the best spin bowler in the game. The Aussie leg spinner won the first round by having Tendulkar caught at slip for four in the first innings. In the second innings Tendulkar turned the tables – and how! He entered at a crucial stage for India 71 runs behind were 115 for two early on the fourth morning. Rahul Dravid and Md Azharuddin helped him to figure in century partnerships for the third and fourth wickets but it was Tendulkar’s masterly mauling of Warne that was the cynosure. He treated the Aussie spin wizard like a club bowler at the nets by repeatedly hitting him for fours and sixes. When Azharuddin declared at 418 for four Tendulkar was unbeaten with a glorious 155 for which he batted only 191 balls and hit 14 fours and four sixes while Warne had the ragged figures of one for 122 from 30 overs. The hunter had become the ...

India tests first Test defeat after 15 matches..

While India crashed to a humiliating innings and six runs defeat against South Africa in the first Test in Nagpur on Tuesday, Sachin Tendulkar's managed to score a (100) defiant ton. Tendulkar's 46th century, his fourth against the South Africans and first at home against the Proteas, was the lone significant knock in the entire Indian innings. Tendulkar was lucky to see his glide off Parnell grassed by Jacques Kallis in the slip cordon, when he was on 45. Tendulkar subsequently was watchful but at the same time walloped the bad deliveries. He and Dhoni rekindled India's hopes with a steady 70-run partnership and the sparse crowd at the VCA Stadium roared in appreciation after Tendulkar reached his 46th Test century. Following on, India resumed on 66 for two this morning, but folded for 319 in their second essay to allow South Africa to take a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. It was South Africa's fifth Test win in India in 11 attempts. More importantly, it was India...

Egass: The Divine Awakening and Folk Soul of Devbhumi

By Ayesha Aryan Rana, Co-founder, VRIGHT PATH Uttarakhand , revered as Devbhumi – the Land of the Gods , is not merely a Himalayan state; it is a living temple — a sacred geography where the Devas have descended and lived among humans since the beginning of creation . ( Read in Hindi ) Every mountain, every river, and every valley here vibrates with divine consciousness. From these very peaks emerge the holy rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati , which sanctify and sustain the entire Indian subcontinent. It is this sacred land that is home to the Char Dham — Kedarnath , the abode of Lord Shiva ; Badrinath , the eternal seat of Lord Vishnu ; and Kankhal (Haridwar) , the pious site of Goddess Sati and Daksha Prajapati . Here flow the five sacred confluences (Panch Prayag) — Vishnuprayag, Nandprayag, Karnaprayag, Rudraprayag, and Devprayag — where rivers merge as symbols of divine and human consciousness uniting into one. The holy cities of Haridwar and Ris...

Team India quell Chittagong uprising, Sachin scores his 44th test ton

India inflicted a 113-run defeat on Bangladesh in the first Test, with a session of play left on the fifth and final day, at the Zohur Ahmed Chowdhury stadium in Chittagong on Thursday Jan 21,2010. Sachin Tendulkar was declared the man of the match for his masterclass effort (105 not out) in the first innings. Chasing 415 to win, the hosts -- resuming at 67 for two overnight -- were dismissed for 301 in two sessions of play on day five, their best second innings total against the visitors. Stumper Mushfiqur Rahim scored a valiant 101, an almost run-a-ball knock that comprised of 17 hits to the fence and one over it, in a late charge that helped Bangladesh reduce the margin considerably. But it wasn't enough to help them save the match. For India, Amit Mishra and Ishant Sharma impressed with the ball, taking four and three wickets respectively. Zaheer Khan helped himself to a couple. The win ensured India's unbeaten run extended to 13 Tests -- seven wins and six draws -- their ...

Celebrating the Spirit of Republic Day: Vedas to the modern marvels | A Nation United in Heritage and Progress

By Aryan Prem Rana, Founder, VRightpath Wishing You a Joyous Republic Day. As the tricolor unfurls against the sky, our hearts swell with pride, and the anthem ignites a spark of patriotism in our souls. Republic Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it is a celebration of the very essence of India—a vibrant democracy, a rich heritage, and an enduring vision of unity and progress. हिंदी में पढ़िए On this 76th Republic Day, let us pay homage to the architects of our Constitution and salute the martyrs whose sacrifices laid the foundation of our free and independent Republic. The Constitution of India, which came into effect on January 26, 1950, is a testament to the values of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. It serves as the guiding light for over 1.4 billion citizens. Why January 26? The Historic Significance The choice of January 26 as Republic Day is steeped in history. On this day in 1930, the Indian National Congress proclaimed Purna Swar...

143 vs Australia at Sharjah, Coca Cola Cup, 1998

The first of two successive master classes at Sharjah which have since been nicknamed ``Desert Storm.’’ Coming into the match India’s position was shaky. They had not fared very well in the tri series (the third team was New Zealand). In this last league match after the Australians had led off with 284 for seven in 50 overs India’s target was revised following a dust storm. The winning target was 276 but India by getting 237 would qualify for the final edging out New Zealand on superior run rate. As wickets fell at regular intervals Tendulkar guided India masterfully to their first target batting in commanding fashion against a bowling line-up that included Damien Fleming, Michael Kasprowicz and Shane Warne. After four wickets had fallen for 138, Tendulkar dominated a fifth wicket partnership of 104 runs with VVS Laxman. By the time he was fifth out at 242 in the 43rd over he had made sure that India would qualify for the final with a blistering 143 from 131 balls with nine fours and ...

VRIGHTPATH PATH

Search This Blog