'The stream of faith unites North and South': PM Modi on Kerala Kumbh Mela in Mann Ki Baat

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday spoke about the revival of the centuries-old Mamangam tradition in Kerala, often referred to as the “Kerala Kumbh”, stating that while rivers may differ across India, the “stream of faith” remains the same.

In the latest episode of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, PM Modi recalled the spiritual significance of the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, describing the massive gathering at the Sangam as a powerful expression of devotion and India’s enduring civilisational consciousness.

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“From North to South, the rivers may be different, the banks may be different, but the stream of faith is the same — this is Bharat,” the Prime Minister said.

Drawing parallels between the Maha Kumbh and Kerala’s Mamangam festival, Modi noted that in Tirunavaya, on the banks of the Bharathappuzha River, a centuries-old tradition is being revived. The festival, also known as the “Maha Magha” or “Kerala Kumbh”, centres on ritual bathing during the month of Magha, which devotees consider spiritually significant.

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The Prime Minister observed that over time, the Mamangam tradition had faded and had not been celebrated with its earlier grandeur for nearly 250 years. However, he said the recent observance marked a renewed recognition of India’s cultural heritage.

“This time, the Kerala Kumbh was successfully held without any major announcement. People informed each other, word spread, and devotees began arriving at Tirunavaya every day,” Modi said.

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He described both the Maha Kumbh and Mamangam as more than religious bathing festivals, calling them a cultural reawakening and a reaffirmation of India’s shared traditions.

“Whether it is the Maha Kumbh or the Kerala Kumbh, it is not merely a festival of bathing. It is a reawakening of memory and culture,” he added.

The Prime Minister’s remarks underscore the government’s emphasis on reviving and celebrating India’s spiritual and historical traditions as part of a broader cultural narrative.

PTI