📷 Image Credits: Deccan Herald
As the spiritual extravaganza of the Maha Kumbh unfolds in Prayagraj, attracting devotees from across the globe, a poignant moment captured the essence of inter-faith connections when a group of 68 Hindu devotees from Pakistan’s Sindh province arrived to partake in the holy event. This remarkable gathering is a blend of cultural roots, personal histories, and collective prayers for peace, as these pilgrims converged upon India, fueled by an age-old yearning to immerse themselves in their spiritual heritage.
On February 6, 2025, these pilgrims, each one entwined in the rich tapestry of their Hindu ancestry, took a holy dip at the Sangam—the revered confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical river Saraswati. The waters of this sacred site are believed to be purifying, perfect for conducting rituals meant to honor their ancestors. Their journey began earlier at Haridwar, where they immersed the ashes of nearly 480 ancestors, symbolizing a link that transcends time and geography.
Accompanied by Mahant Ramnath, who facilitated their sacred expedition, the attendees shared their profound experiences with the media. Gobind Ram Makhija, a devoted pilgrim from Ghotki, expressed their unquenchable desire to attend the Maha Kumbh. “Ever since we heard about this event in recent months, it has been our deepest wish to be here. We simply couldn’t resist the call,” he said, emphasizing the spiritual pull that drew them to India. Among the group were 50 first-time visitors, who navigated through emotional waves during their pilgrimage. Surbhi, an 11th-grade student from Ghotki, expressed her joy: “For the first time, I am witnessing and understanding my religion deeply. It feels wonderful to be here.”
Priyanka, another member of the group, described the experience as a divine encounter with culture and heritage. She remarked, “Witnessing our customs here is extraordinary. Though I was raised in Sindh among Muslims, I never felt much discrimination against us, despite what the media often portrays. However, the magnitude of our heritage experienced in India is unparalleled.”
The dialogue surrounding the visit also touched upon contemporary issues, such as the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) that has stirred discussions among Hindus in Pakistan, particularly about their right to citizenship in India. Niranjan Chawla, a participant from Sukkur, shared insights about the conditions in Sindh. “In certain areas like Rajasthan, this Act becomes relevant due to the challenges faced by Hindus. However, there’s only a limited push for Pakistani Hindus to seek citizenship, generally speaking.”
While discussing immigration issues, Chawla highlighted the often cumbersome visa clearance process, stating, “It normally takes around six months, but this time, we were afforded the opportunity of relatively quick processing, for which we are grateful to the Indian government. This ease reflects the goodwill that exists between our communities.”
After fulfilling their spiritual rites at the Sangam, the group plans to continue their journey, heading toward Raipur and eventually returning to Haridwar. This path holds the promise of further rituals and interactions with Indian saints, allowing them to deepen their spiritual experience amid the vibrant atmosphere of the Kumbh Mela. The attendees’ impressions speak volumes about the bonds of faith and cultural pride they carry, as well as the universal desire for peace and understanding that outshines the borders that separate them from their ancestors’ land.
As we observe the moments shared between these Pakistani Hindus and the warmth they received during their stay in India, it serves as a reminder of the rich, shared heritage that binds communities. The Maha Kumbh stands not just as a religious affair, but as a symbol of hope, unity, and the transcendence of spiritual legacy, showcasing how faith can bridge distant lands and cultures.
