Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 7 (Reporter) Though the CPI(M)-led Left Government has not taken any step to ensure its official representation at the Prayagraj Kumbh Mela, the monastic community from Kerala takes a significant step in bridging the state’s spiritual heritage with the world’s largest religious congregation this year. "For the first time, monks from Kerala will be participating in an organised manner, representing the birthplace of Adi Shankaracharya, the key person who played a key role in reviving monastic traditions and re-establishing grand spiritual gatherings like the Kumbh Mela," Sadhu Anandavanam, Managing Trustee of Kalika Peetham, told UNI. "The participation is being led by 'Kalika Peetham,' affiliated with 'Shri Panch Dashnam Juna Akhada,' one of the principal Naga Sannyasi sects responsible for the event’s organisation," Sadhu Anandavanam said. "Sannyasi sects in Kerala are set to make their presence felt at the Prayagraj Kumbh Mela this year, marking a significant milestone in the spiritual engagement of the state with one of the world’s largest religious congregations," he said. "Despite invitations extended by the Uttar Pradesh government to all states, the Kerala government has not announced its official representation so far. In this context, the initiative by Kerala’s monastic community marks a significant step in bridging the state’s spiritual heritage with this ancient tradition," he added. "A dedicated area has been set up at Sector 12, Harshavardhan Marg, in the Mela City to accommodate participants from Kerala," he said. "The arrangements include temporary shelters, food distribution services, and medical facilities. Kalika Peetham has also introduced several initiatives as part of the event, such as Anna Kumbh, a mass meal service for monks and devotees; Ayur Kumbh, offering Ayurvedic treatment; and Vriksha Kumbh, an environmental initiative aimed at increasing green cover in Prayagraj before the next Kumbh Mela." "These efforts are being coordinated with the support of voluntary organisations, temple committees, and devotees from Kerala," Sadhu Anandavanam said. "Participation in the Kumbh Mela is not just about attending the event but also about serving monks and devotees by providing essential facilities. So far, Kerala’s presence in such spiritual gatherings has been minimal, possibly due to logistical challenges and language barriers," he pointed out. "However, this year’s initiative signals a shift. What begins as a small effort today is expected to evolve into a larger movement in the future," he said. He describes this as a humble offering and a significant step in honouring Kerala’s spiritual lineage. The Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, will take place from January 14 to February 26, 2025. Recognised as the world’s largest religious gathering, the event is expected to attract over 50 lakh monks and nearly 400 million devotees. With participants from all across India, the Kumbh Mela is a convergence of diverse cultural and spiritual traditions, a moment when the entire nation unites on the banks of the sacred river...////...