Prayagraj: The Uttar Pradesh government on Wednesday ensured an unforgettable experience for devotees by showering them with flowers from a helicopter on the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivratri, the final snan of Maha Kumbh.
Continuing its tradition from previous bathing festivals, the government arranged for 20 quintals of rose petals to be showered upon devotees at the Sangam Ghat. The floral shower began at 8 am, just as thousands of devotees were taking a dip at the sacred confluence.
Overwhelmed by the sight of rose petals raining from the sky, devotees chanted ‘Jai Shri Ram,’ ‘Har Har Mahadev,’ ‘Ganga Maiya Ki Jai,’ and ‘Tirthraj Prayag Ki Jai’ in reverence. Many expressed their gratitude towards the Yogi government, appreciating the grand gesture that honoured their faith.
With the Maha Shivratri Snan marking the last major bathing event of Maha Kumbh, a massive influx of devotees began arriving at the Sangam shores from Tuesday night.
Deputy Director of the Horticulture Department, Prayagraj Division, Krishna Mohan Choudhary, said that preparations for the floral shower were made in advance under the instructions of CM Yogi Adityanath to accommodate the overwhelming number of pilgrims.
Officer in charge of the floral showers VK Singh said that 5 to 6 rounds of flower showers were conducted at the Triveni Sangam Ghats, with the first round starting at 8 AM. Helicopters circled the area, showering devotees with rose petals, creating a breathtaking spectacle that enhanced the divine atmosphere of Maha Kumbh.
He said that 120 quintals of rose petals have been used so far in six major snan (holy bathing) events, with 20 quintals allocated for each occasion. This initiative aimed to provide devotees with a unique and spiritually enriching experience, making their participation in Maha Kumbh even more memorable.