Swami Saraswati Departs Prayagraj Mela Without Performing Sacred Ritual
The ongoing dispute between Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati and the Prayagraj Mela Authority has reached a critical juncture, with the seer leaving the Magh Mela without taking the holy dip in the Triveni Sangam. This development marks a significant escalation in the conflict that has been brewing for over ten days.
Protest Continues as Administration Fails to Provide Assurance
Swami Saraswati, who identifies as the Shankaracharya of Jyotirmath in Uttarakhand, had been staging a sit-in protest at the mela grounds since January 18. He refused to perform the ritual bath alongside his supporters until action was taken against officials whom he accused of misbehavior. According to Yogi Raj Sarkar, the national media in-charge for Saraswati, the administration failed to provide any written assurance regarding their demands, leading to their departure from Prayagraj.
This is the first time in history that a Shankaracharya has returned from the Magh Mela without taking the holy dip, Sarkar claimed. He emphasized that their protest will persist, with plans to return for the next Magh Mela and continue their dharna. We will not enter the shivir as no one came to escort us with due respect for the ritual bath this time, he added.
Mela Authority Issues Notices Amidst Escalating Tensions
Over the past week, the Mela Authority had issued two formal notices to Swami Saraswati. The first notice alleged that he and his supporters attempted to force their way toward the Triveni Sangam on January 18, potentially risking a stampede. It questioned why he should not be barred from future melas and sought his response.
The second notice referenced a 2022 Supreme Court order to challenge his use of the title Shankaracharya. Sarkar confirmed that they have submitted responses to both notices, but the authority has remained firm in its position, refusing to budge on the matter.
Political Dimensions and Future Plans
The controversy has also drawn political attention, with the Samajwadi Party and Congress extending support to Swami Saraswati and criticizing the ruling BJP for alleged disrespect toward Sanatan Dharma. Meanwhile, the BJP appears divided, with most leaders maintaining silence while others attempt reconciliation efforts.
Following their exit from Prayagraj, Swami Saraswati and his followers are en route to Varanasi, where they plan to stay briefly before continuing their advocacy. The seer expressed deep disappointment, stating, I never imagined I would have to leave the mela with such a heavy heart.
As the impasse continues, all eyes are on how this religious and administrative standoff will unfold in the coming months, especially with the seer's vow to return for future Magh Mela events.
