Actress turned politician Hema Malini attended the Maha Kumbh Mela where took a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam on Mauni Amavasya today. The veteran actress also met Mahamandaleshwar Acharya Swami Avdheshanand Giri Ji Maharaj at the Prabhu Premi Sangh Kumbh Camp and discussed spirituality. Hema Malini shared her gratitude that she could take the holy dip among crores of devotees on such an auspicious day. While speaking to ANI, the actress said, “I am feeling great. I have never had such an experience before. Today is a very special day, and I am fortunate to take the holy dip.” 

Malini further added, “Iss shubh avsar par mujhe yahan snan karne ka mauka mila, yeh mera saubhagya hai. Bahut hi accha laga hai, itne karooron log aaye hue hain, yahan mujhe bhi sthan mila, nahane ka. Dhanyavad. (It is my good fortune. I feel very happy that, among the millions of people who have gathered here, I too got an opportunity to take a holy dip. Thank you).” 

Netizens on social media raised concerns about the stampede like situations. Several people pointed out that authorities should restrict celebrities and dignitaries from performing rituals at the location until the crowd settles down. As per reports, there was a stampede-like situation that occurred due to overcrowding which led to casualties. Amid the chaos, the ‘akharas’ decided to cancel their traditional ‘Amrit Snan’ for Mauni Amavasya. But the devotees continued to take baths in the holy river. The Amrit Snan on Mauni Amavasya holds a huge significance in the Maja Kumbh which attracted 10 crore pilgrims. This year, Maha Kumbh is even more special because of ‘Triveni Yog’ which is a rare celestial occurrence that happens after 144 years.