Prayagraj: The 1,400-year-old tradition of emperor Harshvardhan is captivating visitors to the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj . Renowned for his generosity, emperor Harshvardhan was known for donating not only money and jewellery but also his clothing during the Kumbh. This tradition has been revived in the city under the Yogi govt, which has established donation centres across the city where people can contribute clothes and other items for the less fortunate.
As a result, a significant number of visitors from Maharashtra, West Bengal, and Rajasthan have flocked to the area. A team from Maharashtra commended the state govt's public welfare initiatives after witnessing the distribution of donated clothing to those in need. Anupam Parihar, Editor of India's first Hindi monthly magazine ‘Saraswati', references a seventh-century Chinese traveller's account, highlighting that the spirit of the Kumbh has been celebrated in India for centuries.
According to historians, Harshvardhan used to host grand festivities during this major religious event, which lasted around 75 days. It is said that he would donate all he accumulated over the years to the local people before leaving, even giving away his garments. This noble practice has been reinvigorated in Prayagraj through the initiative of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath , encouraging voluntary donations from the public and allowing the needy to take what they require.
Parihar also shared insights about the ancient Kumbh festival in Prayagra.
