Maha Kumbh showed unity in diversity: PM Modi in Parliament

Speaking in the Lok Sabha, Modi said, "Today, when there is disintegration across the world, this huge display of unity is our strength.

"We have always said that unity in diversity is the specialty of India and we have experienced its grand form in Prayagraj Maha Kumbh. It is our responsibility to continue enriching this feature of unity in diversity."

The Maha Kumbh or Grand Kumbh, which was held January 13-February 26, 2025, is held every 144 years.

This year's Maha Kumbh is significant as it coincides with the 12th Kumbh Mela.

Modi highlighted how the Maha Kumbh was attended by people from all sections of the society including filmstars, top industrialists, politicians and icons from abroad. 

"Many positives have emerged from Maha Kumbha and the most sacred is unity. Maha Kumbh was such an event in which people from every region and every corner of the country came together. People left behind their ego and gathered in Prayagraj with the feeling of 'we', not 'I' but 'we'," the Prime Minister said.

"When people speaking different languages and dialects chant Har Har Gange on the banks of the Sangam, a glimpse of 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' is seen and the feeling of unity increases," he added.

In response to the Prime Minister's address, Leader of Opposition and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi told ANI, " We support what the PM said, Kumbh is our history and culture. Our only complaint is that the PM did not give Shraddhanjali to those who lost their lives in Kumbh.

"The youth who went to the Maha Kumbh also wants one more thing from the PM, which is employment... As per the democratic structure, the LoP should get an opportunity to speak, but they won't let us. This is new India."