Lucknow witnessed a grand confluence of culture, governance, and spirituality as Times Now Navbharat hosted Navbharat Ka Mahakumbh, a thought-provoking conclave that explored the Mahakumbh’s transformative role in shaping India’s identity and progress. The event, held yesterday, brought together some of the most influential leaders, policymakers, and spiritual figures to discuss the deep interconnection between tradition, tourism, infrastructure, and economic growth.

The conclave saw the presence of key dignitaries, including Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya, Minister of Tourism and Culture Jaiveer Singh, Anurag Bhadouria from the Samajwadi Party, political analyst Sourav Malviya, and spiritual leader Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, among others. Together, they delved into the Mahakumbh’s potential as a beacon of cultural diplomacy and a catalyst for India’s economic aspirations.

Speaking at the conclave, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized that India’s journey toward becoming a developed and progressive nation is inseparable from its spiritual and cultural heritage. He pointed to Uttar Pradesh’s ongoing efforts to revive sacred sites, stating,
“Places like Sambhal, once plagued by power theft, are now being recognized for their historical and religious significance. Our government is not just restoring temples but is reviving India’s rich past as a source of national pride.”

Discussing India’s global standing, CM Yogi referenced Indonesia’s President acknowledging his Indian ancestry and Lord Ram as an ancestor. He called upon Muslim leaders in India to take inspiration from this, adding, “Our Constitution ensures justice and equality for all. However, in the past, appeasement divided society and hindered progress. Our government has replaced such practices with Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas (inclusive growth).”

On governance and legal reforms, he hailed the implementation of the UCC (Uniform Civil Code) in Uttarakhand as a welcome step to combat issues like land jihad and love jihad. He also mentioned that 1.20 lakh government-owned properties in Uttar Pradesh have been freed from the control of the Waqf Board under the Waqf Amendment Bill.

Highlighting the spiritual significance of the Prayagraj Mahakumbh, Yogi Adityanath revealed that 16 crore devotees had taken a dip at the Sangam in the past 15 days. In a veiled political remark, he suggested that even Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge might eventually partake in the holy dip. Taking a swipe at the AAP government, he criticized Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for obstructing the Yamuna cleanup efforts, predicting an electoral defeat for him on February 5.

Deputy CM Keshav Prasad Maurya dismissed claims that the Mahakumbh was a politically motivated event.

“The Mahakumbh is a centuries-old spiritual gathering, not a BJP event. The leadership of PM Narendra Modi and CM Yogi Adityanath has ensured its smooth execution, unlike in 2013 under Akhilesh Yadav’s government, which failed to make proper arrangements.”

Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh emphasized Uttar Pradesh’s evolving status as a global spiritual tourism hub.

“What was once an event for saints has now become a worldwide festival, transcending caste, language, and region. The Mahakumbh is a testament to the resilience of our Sanatan traditions and the vision of Yogi ji, who has placed Uttar Pradesh on the world map.”

He further stressed the government’s focus on eco-tourism and rural tourism, which align with India’s sustainable development goals while strengthening its spiritual identity.

Navbharat Ka Mahakumbh concluded with compelling discussions on India’s economic and cultural potential. The event reinforced how governance, spirituality, and tourism can work in unison to drive India’s future, making the Mahakumbh not just a spiritual congregation but a symbol of India’s cultural resurgence and economic progress.