Influencer Harsha Richaria’s involvement in the Shahi Snan during the ongoing Maha Kumbh at Prayagraj has sparked a significant debate. While some seers support her presence, others have raised objections, questioning its appropriateness within the religious context.
The ongoing discussions reflect differing perspectives on tradition, modernity, and the role of individuals in significant spiritual events.
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Mahant Ravindra Puri, president of the Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad (ABAP), defended Richaria’s participation. He announced plans to have her take part in the second Amrit Snan on January 29, riding the chariot of Niranjani Akhara. “She is our daughter and the pride of Uttarakhand. I told her that she’ll be taking the holy dip on Mauni Amavasya sitting on a chariot in a full royal and grand manner, and she will bathe like a ‘devi.’ I requested her to stay back and complete her stay at Kumbh,” said Puri.Voices of dissent
Not everyone shares Puri’s view. Shambhavi Peethadheeshwar Swami Anand Swaroop strongly opposed Richaria’s participation, arguing that it disrespects the seer community. “My view is very simple: a model should not and cannot take part in the Amrit Snan along with other seers just because she has worn bhagwa (saffron). It is disrespectful to the seer community, and we will certainly stop this from happening. Ab aar paar ho hi jaaye (Now, it should be settled once and for all),” said Swaroop, who leads the Kali Sena.Richaria defends her role
Harsha Richaria, who gained attention after participating in the first Amrit Snan on January 14, expressed gratitude for Mahant Puri’s support. “I have come home to my Maharaj ji. If he is blessing me, I don’t need any other person’s support. If a daughter gets the support of her father, what else does she need? As I said earlier, I am here to learn about Sanatan Dharma to get connected with it, so that I can spread awareness in society,” Richaria told the media.Criticism of her prominence
Richaria’s viral videos and photos from the Maha Kumbh have drawn both admiration and criticism. While some followers referred to her as the “most beautiful sadhvi,” sections of ascetics have disapproved of the attention she has received, emphasizing that the Kumbh’s purpose is to spread spiritual knowledge rather than serve as a stage for personal publicity.The ongoing discussions reflect differing perspectives on tradition, modernity, and the role of individuals in significant spiritual events.
