The Kumbh Mela at Prayagraj attracts not only devotees but also remarkable yogis who astound everyone with their unique practices. Some have had their hands raised for 9 years, while others have been standing uninterruptedly for 11 years. Their devotion and determination leave pilgrims bewildered.
Beginning on January 13, Makar Sankranti's bath marks the start of the Kumbh Mela at Prayagraj's confluence. Akharas continue to arrive one by one, and among them are extraordinary yogis practicing their rituals. Our team witnessed several such yogis whose astounding resolve leaves onlookers amazed.
The hand-raised Yogi - Mahakal Giri
First met was the yogi who has kept his left hand uplifted for the past 9 years. He calls this hand the 'flag of religion,' always pointed towards the sky. His mission and the rigidity of his raised hand speak volumes. The hand stiffened like wood, with twisted nails and no longer any sensation, signifies devotion to the sacred cow. His campaign also involves stopping cow slaughter, and so, he vows to continue his yoga as long as harm comes to cattle.
Source: aajtak
Mahakal Giri's yogic perseverance has spanned 9 years and aims to achieve spiritual prowess after 12, although he intends to maintain this state lifelong. His determination is such that his hand now feels like stone.
The Standing Yogi - Khadeshwar Maharaj
Another remarkable yogi from the same order is Khadeshwar Maharaj. This yogi has not lifted his foot from the ground for 11 years. He neither sits nor sleeps, maintaining his stance aided by a nearby tin drum. The reason for his remarkable yoga practice aligns with spiritual well-being and the welfare of religion, bearing swelling and wounds on his feet.
Source: aajtak
Dependency on Oxygen Since COVID - The Perseverance of Indra Giri
Yet another fascinating yogi, Indra Giri, has been reliant on an oxygen cylinder for the past 4 years. Unable to perform rituals due to damaged lungs, yet never abandoning his discipline, he carries an oxygen cylinder. Despite these challenges, Indra Giri celebrates royal bathing ceremonies and continues devotional singing for the welfare of humanity.The doctors had given up hope due to his lung condition, but even in the cold, he remains present, equipped with oxygen support.
Crowned with 45 Kilos of Rudraksha Beads - Geetanand Giri
Geetanand Giri's head bears the weight of 45 kilograms of Rudraksha. It is his penance for 12 hours a day, embodying devotion and Hindu spirituality. Trained by his guru from the tender age of childhood, he remains unchanged, unaffected by the burden, with many such yogis arriving at Kumbh Mela, leaving visitors in awe.
