President Droupadi Murmu hoists religious flag, formally opens Nashik Kumbh Mela

The Simhastha Kumbh Mela religious observance officially commenced on Saturday in Trimbakeshwar, located in Nashik district, India. The sacred site, situated along the Godavari river and home to one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, witnessed the flag-hoisting ceremony at 12:02 pm by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. The event took place in the presence of Shankaracharya Swami Vidhushekhara Bharati, the successor to the Sringeri Peeth.

Representatives from the 10 monastic orders, saints, sages, and devotees gathered to partake in the auspicious ceremony.

President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the 2026-2028 Simhastha Kumbh Parva by hoisting the Dharmadhwaja at Nashik's Ramkund at the same auspicious time. As preparations continued until July 24, 2028, the first Amrut Snan, or sacred nectar bath, for saints, mahants, and Naga sadhus was set for August 2, 2027. A vibrant atmosphere filled the air with Vedic chants, mantras, and the sound of conch shells, creating an ambiance of devotion.

The flag-hoisting ceremony marked a pivotal moment in the religious preparations for the Kumbh Mela. Prominent officials and saints from various akhadas across the country attended the event, including Shri Mahant Hari Giri, Shri Mahant Ravindra Puri, Shri Mahant Satya Giri, Shri Mahant Durgadas, Shri Mahant Shankaranand Saraswati, Shri Mahant Devendraji, and Shri Mahant Bhagat Ramji.

Organized jointly by the Purohit Sangh, Trimbakeshwar Municipal Council, and Simhastha Kumbh Mela Authority, the ceremony set the stage for the grand spiritual festival.