Mahakumbh a Global Symbol of Unity, Cleanliness and Safety: PM Modi
Lauding sanitary workers, he said their spirit of service regarding cleanliness, safety, and health in the Mahakumbh of Unity has won the hearts of the countrymen.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a heartfelt tribute to the unsung heroes of the ongoing Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, spotlighting the tireless efforts of sanitation workers and police personnel in ensuring the event’s success. Speaking at a public event in Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh, where he laid the foundation stone for the Bageshwar Dham Medical and Science Research Institute, PM Modi lauded the dedication that has transformed the Mahakumbh into a global symbol of cleanliness, safety, and unity. His remarks, widely shared via a video clip on his X handle, underscored the pivotal role these workers play in what he called the “Mahakumbh of Unity”, an event drawing millions of devotees and earning praise both domestically and internationally.
The Mahakumbh, which began on January 13 with the auspicious Paush Purnima and is set to conclude on February 26 with Mahashivratri, has already seen an astonishing 62 crore devotees take a holy dip at the Sangam—the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers—according to Uttar Pradesh government estimates. Behind this massive spiritual gathering lies an intricate tapestry of effort, much of it woven by sanitation workers who labor around the clock to maintain hygiene across the sprawling 4,000-hectare temporary city. Modi, addressing the crowd in Chhatarpur, said, “The work being done with full spirit of service regarding cleanliness, safety, and health in the Mahakumbh of Unity has won the hearts of the countrymen.” He saluted the sanitation workers, bowing in respect to their unwavering commitment, and noted that their efforts have become a topic of admiration among visitors nationwide.
The Prime Minister’s praise wasn’t limited to words. He highlighted tangible outcomes, such as the “Netra Mahakumbh,” a parallel initiative within the Mela where over two lakh eye check-ups have been conducted, with around one and a half lakh people receiving free medicines and glasses, and approximately 16,000 referred for cataract surgeries. This, he said, exemplifies the broader impact of the meticulous planning and labor that sanitation workers uphold, ensuring a clean and safe environment for such initiatives to thrive. “Every person who comes to the Mahakumbh is singing praises of the sanitation workers’ relentless efforts,” PM Modi remarked, amplifying their role in elevating the event’s global stature.
Sanitation workers themselves were deeply moved by the recognition. Fagu, a worker from Mirzapur, shared, “We work from 5 in the morning till 5 in the evening, always engaged in cleaning. When the Prime Minister praised us, we felt our efforts were truly seen.” Similarly, Kaluiya from Fatehpur expressed pride, saying, “His compliment is a matter of honor for us after cleaning for hours every day.” Manhaia Lal Prajapati and Sona echoed this sentiment, with the latter adding, “We’ve been at it for months, working 10 hours a day. His greetings overwhelmed us with happiness.” These voices reflect a morale boost among the 15,000-strong sanitation workforce, a group PM Modi had earlier thanked on December 13 during his visit to Prayagraj, where he also took a holy dip at the Sangam and inaugurated projects worth Rs 5,500 crore.
Modi’s appreciation extended beyond sanitation to the police force, whom he likened to “saints on the ground” for their patience and politeness in managing the massive crowds. “They’ve handled people from every corner of the country with humility, winning hearts,” he said, acknowledging their role in seamless public management. Under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s “Mitra Police” vision, police as friends to the public, officers have been assisting devotees with compassion, further enhancing the Mela’s harmonious atmosphere.
This isn’t the first time PM Modi has honored sanitation workers at the Kumbh. In 2019, during the Ardh Kumbh, he made headlines by washing the feet of five workers, a gesture that left a lasting impression. Workers like Jyoti, who met him then, recalled, “I felt proud and emotional. No leader before him respected us like that.” Naresh Kumar added, “When the Prime Minister washed my feet, I was stunned. It brought happiness to sanitation workers nationwide.” As the 2025 Mahakumbh nears its close, these workers hope for another such interaction, buoyed by PM Modi’s consistent recognition of their dignity and labor.
The Mahakumbh’s success, marked by its grandeur, divinity, and modern infrastructure like 150,000 tents, 450,000 electricity connections, and enhanced sanitation, owes much to this workforce. PM Modi’s praise, delivered just days before the event’s culmination, not only celebrates their contribution but also reinforces a narrative of unity and service, resonating with the millions who’ve witnessed this historic gathering. As the world watches, the sanitation workers and police stand tall, their efforts lauded by a leader who sees them as the backbone of a cleaner, stronger India.
