Incredible Mahakumbh: Naga ascetics camps at Mahakumbh showcase heartwarming animal love

Mahakumbh city: The Maha Kumbh, set to take place on the sacred sands of Sangam in Prayagraj, is already resonating with the 'triveni' of devotion, meditation, and spirituality. These vibrant elements are vividly reflected in the camps of the Naga ascetics in the Akhara sector, where their deep love for animals has captured the hearts of all visiting.

Sanyasis (ascetics) have arrived at the camps of the Akharas in Mahakumbh city,  bringing with them an impressive array of saints and ascetics from across the country. 

Among them, Mahant Shravan Giri, who hails from Narsinghpur in Madhya Pradesh, stands out for his unique bond with his pet bitch, Lali. With a rosary in one hand, used for chanting the name of Lord Ganesha, and a leash in the other, Mahant Giri views Lali not just as a pet, but as an integral part of his meditation. 

He recalls finding Lali during the 2019 Kumbh while traveling from Prayagraj to Kashi, when she was just a two-month-old puppy. Since then, Lali has been by his side, guarding the camp while Mahant Giri is engaged in his spiritual practices. 

Mahant Giri has shown his deep affection for Lali by arranging a health card for her, ensuring access to free medical treatment whenever required.

Mahant Shravan Giri is not the only pet lover in the Akhara Sector of Mahakumbh. Mahant Tara Giri, from Juna Akhara and hailing from ‘Khetabas Ashram’ in Gurgaon, also shares a unique bond with his pet, Soma. 

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Mahant Tara Giri explains that Soma was named after the Monday on which it was born. Poorna Giri, a disciple of Tara Giri, adds that saints and sages have no family or children, and Soma has become like a child to her, receiving immense care and respect.

She shares that Soma is adorned with a tilak, has her dreadlocks tied, and is fed entirely satvik (vegetarian) food. Poorna Giri admits she often spends more time grooming Soma than herself, viewing it as an act of devotion and nurturing the pet with love and care.