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Gujarat quake casts shadow over Kumbh Mela

The earthquake in Gujarat cast its shadow on the 'Shahi Snan' (royal bathing) on the occasion of Basant Panchami, which began on a sombre note in Allahabad today .

In contrast to the enthusiasm associated with the previous 'Shahi Snans', the royal bathing at the Mahakumbh began on a subdued note, with heads and saints of all 13 akharas marching in a procession towards the Sangam -- the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna and mythical Sarawati -- without the accompaniment of any musical band.

Some holy men avoided taking a ride on tractor-trolleys and instead preferred walking down to the Sangam area.

A sea of humanity led by naked Naga sadhus poured in at the bathing ghats of the Sangam at around 0545 hours. Chanting hymns, they plunged into the cold waters of the Treveni.

Millions of pilgrims also took the dip that would, according to religious belief, wash off their sins. Around ten million people are expected to take the holy dip today.

''Most Mahamandaleshwars and Naga sadhus seemed less enthusiastic and were only interested in completing the religious rituals,'' said a brahmachari of the Juna Akhara.

The 'Shahi Snan' was led by the 'Maha Nirvani' of the Sanyasi Akhara, followed by the Niranjanis and Juna Akharas. Later, the Bairagis and Udasins were slated to take a dip in the holy Sangam.

Monday's royal bathing was third of the 'Shahi Snans' and marks the beginning of 'Basant' (Spring) season. The previous two such snans were held on Makar Sankranti (January 14) and Mauni Amavasya (January 24).

Meanwhile, District Magistrate (Kumbh) Jeevesh Anand told UNI that over three million people were already on their way back to their native places after taking the holy dip.

''We are expecting around ten million people to take the dip till Monday evening,'' he said.

UNI

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