Key Highlights
- CM Fadnavis vows full funding for Simhastha 2027 works.
- Nashik–Trimbakeshwar Kumbh to see five times more devotees.
- ₹5,657 crore first-phase projects launched in Nashik.
Nashik: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Sunday said the state will ensure no shortage of funds for the upcoming Simhastha Kumbh Mela, adding that the event is expected to attract five times more devotees than Prayagraj. Speaking at the launch of the first-phase development works worth ₹5,657 crore, Fadnavis described the Nashik–Trimbakeshwar Simhastha as not just a religious event, but a “centuries-old spiritual tradition led by saints”. Major infrastructure projects are being accelerated by both the state and central governments to prepare the city for the historic gathering.
28-Month-Long Kumbh, Rare Alignment After 75 Years
Fadnavis said this Simhastha is “special”, as the rare Trikhanda Yog has aligned after 75 years. With Jupiter entering and returning in Leo, the Kumbh will last 28 months — from 31 October 2026 to 24 July 2028. Around 40–42 major ritual baths, including the first Amrit Snan on 2 August 2027, will take place. He added that the Prayagraj Kumbh showcased India’s cultural resurgence under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling it the world’s largest spiritual gathering.
Nashik’s Space Challenge: Managing Five Times More Devotees
Comparing the two sites, Fadnavis said Prayagraj has 15,000 hectares available near the riverbank, whereas Nashik–Trimbakeshwar has barely 500 hectares, making management a far bigger challenge. Despite limited land, Nashik managed the 2015 Simhastha smoothly and without any major incident, he said. This time, however, authorities expect five times more devotees. To handle the scale, the government has initiated a wide range of developmental works focusing on security, bathing arrangements, and pilgrimage flow.
₹20,000 Crore Projects, Modern Nashik in Making
The Chief Minister said the state and Centre have together approved projects worth over ₹20,000 crore, which may reach ₹25,000 crore by completion. Of this, ₹6,000 crore worth projects were inaugurated on Sunday. Key works include:
- Riverfront cleaning and Godavari rejuvenation
- Redevelopment of temple precincts with heritage-sensitive design
- Expansion of roads and connectivity
- CCTV networks, bus station upgrades, railway improvements
- Acquisition of 1,200 acres for Sadhugram
Fadnavis assured that while land acquisition may inconvenience some, proper rehabilitation will be ensured.
“We Want a Transparent Simhastha 2027”: Fadnavis
He emphasised that all Simhastha works will be transparent, with no interference in tenders.
“Good work needs good contractors. If we make mistakes, saints should guide us. We want your blessings,” he told the gathering.
Fadnavis said Nashik’s spiritual heritage — linked to Lord Ram, Lakshman, and Sita, along with Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga and Anjaneri — deserves development that will serve citizens for the next 25 years.
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