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President Took a Dip in the First Kumbh of Independent India, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Bathed at Sangam, Watch Old Rare Footage Here

Kumbh

The first Kumbh Mela of independent India was held in 1954 at Prayagraj, and it became a historic event that will forever be etched in the annals of Indian history.

During this Kumbh Mela, the first President of India, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, took a holy dip at the Sangam, a moment that was recorded as a significant event in the nation's post-independence history.

In addition to this historic bath, the preparation and execution of the Kumbh Mela had several distinctive features, making it even more memorable.

Kumbh Preparation and Administration

This was the first Kumbh Mela after India’s independence, and its preparation was done on an extensive scale. The state government began preparations months in advance.

The Army, along with the Public Works Department, worked together to build pontoon bridges, while foot-over bridges were constructed at railway crossings.

For the first time in Kumbh history, a thousand street lights were installed, and loudspeakers were set up to ensure smooth communication amidst the crowd.

Temporary hospitals were set up in tents for the pilgrims who came for the Sangam bath, with ambulances and medical facilities readily available.

Health and Safety Measures

Comprehensive health and safety measures were implemented to ensure the well-being of the pilgrims. A vaccination campaign was conducted prior to the event to prevent the spread of diseases.

To prevent any potential infection during the mela, nearly 250 quintals of insecticides were sprayed across the area. Additionally, special machines were deployed to prevent the erosion of the Ganga at the Sangam, and after continuous efforts for 15 days, the erosion was successfully controlled.

Presence of Chief Minister and Prime Minister

The then Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Govind Vallabh Pant, personally inspected the preparations for the Kumbh Mela, traveling by boat and on foot to observe the progress.

During the Kumbh, President Dr. Rajendra Prasad stayed at the fort and observed the mela from the fort's rooftop. That very spot is today known as the "President’s View."

The Bathing Festival and an Incident

On the day of the Makar Sankranti bath during the Kumbh Mela in 1954, India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, visited the Sangam for the holy dip.

On the same day, an elephant went out of control in the Sangam area, leading to an accident. Following this incident, a ban was imposed on elephants entering the Kumbh Mela area.

VIP Access to the Mela Area Restricted

After the incident in 1954, a ban was placed on VIPs visiting the Sangam area during major bathing festivals. Prime Minister Nehru himself ordered that VIPs should not be allowed access to the Sangam during these crucial moments.

This tradition of restricting VIP access during major bathing days of the Kumbh, Mahakumbh, and Ardhakumbh continues to this day.

The 1954 Kumbh Mela remains an integral part of independent India’s history. The meticulous planning, execution, and safety measures made it an exemplary event. The participation of President Dr. Rajendra Prasad and Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru added a layer of historical significance to the event, cementing its place in the country's cultural legacy.

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