Mahakumbh Nagar, Feb 4 (PTI) – Bhutan's King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck visited the Maha Kumbh on Tuesday, immersing himself in the spiritual grandeur of the world's largest religious gathering. Accompanied by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the King took a sacred dip at the Triveni Sangam after performing religious rituals.
Dressed in Bhutan’s traditional attire upon his arrival, the King later changed into a saffron-colored kurta and pyjama before stepping into the holy waters. He offered 'arghya' to the Sun as part of the religious observance, guided by Adityanath.
Several dignitaries joined the ceremony, including Uttar Pradesh cabinet ministers Swatantra Dev Singh and Nand Gopal Gupta, as well as Vishnuswami sect leader Jagadguru Santosh Das Maharaj, popularly known as Satua Baba. The Chief Minister personally oversaw the King's ceremonial bath and religious rites.
Following the dip, Wangchuck paid homage at the revered Akshayvat, a sacred symbol of eternity in Hindu tradition, and offered prayers at the Bade Hanuman Temple. He and Adityanath also explored the Digital Maha Kumbh Experience Centre, which showcases the historical and spiritual essence of the grand festival.
Warm Reception in Lucknow
The Bhutanese monarch arrived in Lucknow on Monday, where he was welcomed with vibrant cultural performances. He was received by CM Adityanath before proceeding to Prayagraj for the pilgrimage.At Raj Bhavan, the King was hosted by Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, where he paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi’s statue. During his visit, the governor and the Chief Minister engaged in discussions with the King on strengthening India-Bhutan relations.
According to an official statement, the visit marks a significant step in reinforcing the longstanding cultural and diplomatic ties between the two nations.
Deepening India-Bhutan Relations
This is not the first high-profile interaction between the two nations in recent times. The King and Queen of Bhutan had visited Delhi in December 2024, while Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was honored in March 2024 with Bhutan’s highest civilian award, the ‘Order of Druk Gyalpo’—a testament to the strong diplomatic bond.Massive Turnout at Maha Kumbh
The Maha Kumbh, which commenced on January 13, continues to witness an overwhelming turnout of devotees. By 12 noon on Tuesday, over 54 lakh pilgrims had taken a holy dip. Since the start of the festival, more than 37.50 crore devotees have participated in the sacred bathing ritual.The grand fair will conclude on February 26, marking the end of one of the largest congregations of faith in the world.
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