Simhastha Dhwajstambh shilanyas at Ramkund marks start of Kumbh countdown

Nashik: The foundation-laying ceremony of the Simhastha Dhwajstambh began on Thursday at the Ramkund on the Godavari river, marking a key milestone in preparations for the Kumbh Mela next year.The ritual ceremony was organised by the Shri Ganga Godavari Panchkothi (Tirth) Purohit Sangh, Nashik and was conducted amid cheers of devotional slogans. Kumbh Mela minister Girish Mahajan and spiritual leader Narendracharya Maharaj (Nanijkar) performed the rituals in the presence of senior officials, public representatives, and seers from various akharas.Officials said a 51ft-tall Dhwajstambh will be erected at the site, where the ceremonial Kumbh flag scheduled to be hoisted on Oct 31.Mahajan underlined the scale of the upcoming Kumbh, stating that the footfall is expected to be four to five times higher than the previous edition, with over 12 crore devotees likely to visit Nashik and Trimbakeshwar.“Ensuring a safe, clean and well-managed Kumbh is the government’s top priority. The administration, religious bodies, and citizens must work together to make the event successful,” he said.He added that infrastructure projects worth around Rs 35,000 crore are currently underway across the district, covering roads, transport systems, sanitation, and other civic facilities. “These works will significantly transform Nashik’s cityscape ahead of the Kumbh,” he said, while urging citizens to actively participate in hosting devotees from across the country and abroad.Mahajan also stressed the need for sustained efforts to keep the Godavari clean, noting that various organisations and volunteers have already initiated efforts in this regard.Highlighting the importance of coordination, Mahajan said the role of sadhus, mahants, akharas, public representatives, administrative officials, police machinery, and citizens would be crucial in the preparations. He called for united efforts to ensure the success of the Simhastha Kumbh Mela.