Mahakumbh Nagar, Feb 4 (PTI): Bhutan King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck visited the sacred Maha Kumbh on Tuesday, where he performed religious rituals and took a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam, a revered confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers.
Accompanied by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, King Wangchuck engaged in traditional rites, offering 'arghya' to the Sun before immersing himself in the sacred waters. The Bhutanese monarch, known for his deep cultural ties with India, initially arrived at the airport dressed in a formal Gho—the national attire for Bhutanese men—secured with a Kera (belt). He was warmly welcomed by Chief Minister Adityanath, who presented him with an orange stole as a mark of respect.
During his holy dip, King Wangchuck was seen wearing a saffron-colored kurta and pyjama, symbolizing the spiritual essence of the occasion. He was joined by UP ministers Swatantra Dev Singh and Nand Gopal Gupta, along with Mahamandaleshwar Santosh Das Ji Maharaj, also known as Satua Baba. The event highlighted the deep-rooted cultural and spiritual connections between India and Bhutan.
The King arrived in Lucknow on Monday and was accorded a grand welcome with traditional cultural performances. He then proceeded to the Raj Bhavan, where he was hosted by Governor Anandiben Patel. Paying homage to Mahatma Gandhi, he offered floral tributes to his statue before engaging in detailed discussions with the Governor and the Chief Minister on India-Bhutan relations.
According to the UP government, King Wangchuck's visit is expected to significantly bolster the longstanding friendship and cultural bonds between the two nations. His trip follows earlier visits by the Bhutanese King and Queen to Delhi in March and December 2024. Notably, Prime Minister Narendra Modi remains the first leader to be honored with Bhutan’s highest civilian award, the 'Order of Druk Gyalpo.'
Meanwhile, the Maha Kumbh witnessed an overwhelming turnout on Tuesday, with over 54 lakh devotees taking a dip by 12 noon. Since the fair’s commencement on January 13, more than 37.50 crore pilgrims have participated in the holy bathing ritual. The grand religious gathering is set to culminate on February 26.
