32 years without a bath: Chhotu Baba captures attention at Maha Kumbh Mela

Chhotu Baba, also known as Gangapuri Maharaj, is a 57-year-old ascetic from Assam's Kamakhya Peeth who has become a centre of attraction at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.

He is noted for his extraordinary height of just 3 feet 8 inches. Despite his small stature, he has garnered significant attention during the Mela, particularly due to his unique personal practice of not bathing for the past 32 years.

Chhotu Baba explained that he does not take a bath because he has a wish that has not been fulfilled over these 32 years. He specifically stated that he would not bathe in the holy Ganga River until his wish is realized.

In his own words, Gangapuri Maharaj mentioned, "This is Milan Mela. Soul to soul should be connected and that's why I'm here," emphasizing the spiritual aspect of the gathering. His story and his practice of abstaining from bathing have made him a notable figure at the event.

The Maha Kumbh is being celebrated after 12 years and a huge turnout of devotees is expected in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26. To prevent mishaps, the district administration has been taking important steps to ensure the safety of the devotees, especially for crowd management and avoiding fire incidents.

This time, for Maha Kumbh, the administration has opted for technological tools along with the deployment of personnel to ensure the safety of the devotees. Chauhan informed that the administration has increased the manpower and has deployed Quick Response Vehicles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) that can run on any kind of terrain, firefighting robots and fire mist bikes.

The administration was also bringing in firefighting boats, which will be ready to be deployed in a week, Chauhan said, adding that the boats will use water from the river to douse the blaze.

Meanwhile, taking a digital leap, the Prayagraj division of North Central Railway has launched an innovative initiative to simplify the ticketing process through modern technology.

During the Maha Kumbh, dedicated railway personnel from the Commercial Department will be deployed at Prayagraj Junction and other key locations. These personnel will be easily identifiable by their green jackets, which will feature a QR code printed on the back.

Pilgrims can simply scan this QR code using their mobile phones to download the UTS (Unreserved Ticketing System) mobile app. This app allows travellers to book unreserved tickets without standing in long queues.

The main bathing rituals, known as the Shahi Snan (royal baths), will take place on January 14 (Makar Sankranti), January 29 (Mauni Amavasya), and February 3 (Basant Panchami). (ANI)