The Prayagraj administration has expressed its readiness to formally apologise to Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand following a controversy related to protocol arrangements during the ongoing Magh Mela. The development comes after the seer unexpectedly left the religious congregation and travelled to Varanasi, triggering concern within the state administration.
Confirming the development, Shankaracharya’s media in-charge Yogiraj Sarkar said that senior government officials have reached out to resolve the issue respectfully. He explained that Prayagraj officials did not anticipate the Shankaracharya’s sudden departure from the Magh Mela before Magh Purnima.
According to Yogiraj, the administration believed that the Shankaracharya would remain in Prayagraj until the sacred bathing ritual on Magh Purnima, scheduled for February 1. Officials expected that they would have enough time to address the concerns and persuade him to continue his stay until the key bathing day.
However, on January 28, Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand left Prayagraj and arrived in Varanasi, prompting swift intervention from the state government. Soon after his arrival, two senior officials from Lucknow contacted the seer and requested him to participate in the Maghi Purnima Sangam Snan with full honour and respect.
While responding to the administration’s request, the Shankaracharya placed two firm conditions. First, he demanded that the officials responsible for the lapse must issue a written apology, clearly acknowledging the mistake. Second, he insisted that the same protocol applicable to all four Shankaracharyas be strictly followed during the ceremonial bath.
Yogiraj Sarkar further stated that some government officials are expected to visit Varanasi personally. They will escort the Shankaracharya back to Prayagraj, where arrangements will be made for his Sangam Snan on Maghi Purnima in accordance with established traditions and protocol.
The administration’s willingness to apologise indicates that the matter is nearing resolution ahead of one of the most significant bathing days of the Magh Mela. The episode has once again underlined the importance of religious sensitivity and adherence to protocol during major spiritual events that draw national and international attention.