Maha Kumbh is held in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh once every 12 years. This time Maha Kumbh is going to be held on the Kshipra banks of Ujjain in 2028. Amidst the preparations for Maha Kumbh, saints have objected to the word ‘Shahi Snan’ and have demanded a change in the name. Some saints say that this word is Islamic and reminds of the influence of the Mughal Empire on India. Therefore, this word should be removed immediately. Akhada Parishad President Ravindra Puri Maharaj has said that a discussion will be held in this regard with the 13 Akhadas and a framework for changing the name will be prepared.
A similar controversy had arisen regarding Mahakaal’s ‘Shahi’ procession in Ujjain. After this, the Chief Minister of the state Dr. Mohan Yadav changed the name of Shahi procession to ‘Rajsi procession’. After this, now the saints want to change the name of ‘Shahi Snan’ in the Simhastha Kumbh to be held in Ujjain. The Akhada Parishad says that after discussing with all the Mahamandaleshwars, the proposal to change the name will be placed before the Chief Minister of the state Dr. Mohan Yadav.
Mahamandaleshwar Shleshanand Maharaj of Niranjani Akhara said that this is the way of working of the one who is ruling. Same happened with India. In the medieval period, the invaders had such an impact that the prevalence of their language increased in daily life. If a word gives a feeling of subjugation or terror, then it should be removed. It is a good step of the Madhya Pradesh government that they have changed the name of Mahakal’s ‘Shahi Sawari’ to ‘Rajsi Sawari’, similarly, now the name of Shahi Snan in Maha Kumbh can be changed to Amrit Snan, Divya Snan.
Mahamandaleshwar Atulyanand Maharaj of Awahan Akhara has said that the word Shahi is an Islamic word and was given by the Mughal invaders. It shows slavery, such a word Shahi should be removed from Sanatan Dharma. The ancient tradition should remain. India is independent, so no such word should be used which shows slavery.