AHEAD OF the Maha Kumbh Mela, all akharas are entering the cantonment area as per the schedule and in accordance with traditions. Continuing the sequence, Shri Taponidhi Anand Akhara, devoted to Lord Surya as their ‘Ishtadev', made its entry on Monday. The Shaiv tradition’s Shri Taponidhi Anand Akhara entered the Mela area with a procession led by Naga Sanyasis, Acharyas, Mandaleshwars and Mahamandaleshwars, riding elephants, horses, chariots and camels. As part of the ceremonial entry, the city and mela administration welcomed the sadhus and sanyasis with garlands and floral showers. Referred to as the guardian of Sanatan Dharma and cultural heritage, Shri Taponidhi Anand Akhara's Cantonment entry unfolded with grandeur. Throughout the journey, residents of Prayagraj and the city administration showered flowers at multiple points. Upon entering the Sangam area, mela administration officials greeted and honoured the sadhus, sanyasis, Mandaleshwars and Mahamandaleshwars. In the grand procession of Shri Taponidhi Anand Akhara, the ‘dharm dhwaja’ led the way, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of drums and devotional music. Following closely behind, the Naga Sanyasis, also known as protectors of Sanatan Dharma, marched with spears, lances, and swords in hand, carrying the idol of Lord Surya. The Acharya, Mandaleshwar and Mahamandaleshwar of the akhara, riding on chariots, elephants, and horses, added to the splendor of the Cantonment procession. During the procession to the camp, under the guidance of Akhara President Shankaranand Giri and Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Balkanand Giri, Mahamandaleshwar Surendranand Giri, Secretary Kalu Giri Maharaj from Bareilly, along with female Mahamandaleshwar Sadhvi Manju, Shri Ji, and other saints and ascetics, entered the fairground area. The cantonment entry of Shri Taponidhi Anand Akhara marked the final procession in the sequence of the Naga Sanyasis' entries for the Maha Kumbh. Next in line, as per tradition and scheduled dates, are the Cantonment entries of Vaishnav Bairagi Akhara, Udasi Akhara and Nirmal Akhara. Upon reaching their premises in the Sangam area, the akhara's first act was the ceremonial hoisting of the dharm dhwaja. Following this, the sadhus and sanyasis, amid the chanting of sacred mantras, established the temple of their revered deity, Lord Surya.
