Critics of Maha Kumbh Answered by 66 Crore Devotees Taking a Holy Dip-Jaiveer Singh.
Lucknow, February 27, 2025: The grand Taj Mahotsav, which began on February 18 in Agra, concluded on Thursday with a spectacular closing ceremony. Speaking at the occassion, Uttar Pradesh’s Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh emphasized that Agra is set to achieve unparalleled heights in tourism and cultural prominence. He assured that next year’s Taj Mahotsav would be organized on an even massive scale.
Highlighting the immense tourism potential in the region, the Tourism Minister stated that not just Agra, but the entire division holds limitless opportunities, which are being actively developed. He pointed out that Bateshwar, the birthplace of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, is an important tourism destination. The central and state governments are currently working on projects, including the installation of a 65-foot-tall statue of the former Prime Minister.
Jaiveer Singh, also announced efforts to provide access to the Taj Mahal at night, allowing tourists to experience its beauty after sunset. He emphasized that Agra’s growth in tourism would directly contribute to the state’s overall development. The goal is to encourage visitors to extend their stay in Agra by at least one or two nights, boosting the local economy.
Speaking on the success of the Mahakumbh, the Minister stated that this historic event has garnered global recognition, with researchers worldwide studying its impact. Addressing critics of the Maha Kumbh, he asserted that the participation of over 66 crore devotees who took a holy dip in the sacred waters served as a befitting response to any doubts raised.
The closing ceremony was graced by several distinguished guests, including District Panchayat President Manju Bhadauria, MLA Chhotelal Verma, MLA Rani Pakshalika, MLC Vijay Shivhare, Metropolitan President Bhanu Mahajan, State Women’s Commission Chairperson Babita Chauhan, as well as the Divisional Commissioner and District Magistrate, among other dignitaries
