Compassion Amid Calamity
Every 12 years, the ancient city of Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh hosts one of the world’s largest gatherings of humanity: the Maha Kumbh Mela. This year’s Maha Kumbh Mela from January 13 to February 26, 2025 held special significance due to a rare planetary alignment that occurs only once every 144 years, making it particularly auspicious for pilgrims seeking spiritual cleansing at the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers.
Amid this extraordinary spiritual gathering, Lions of MD 321 established a meaningful presence, combining humanitarian service with community outreach. Supported by a contribution of Rs. 10 lakhs from LIEPC, they created a welcoming sanctuary within the bustling temporary city.
“We saw an opportunity to serve pilgrims while introducing more people to the Lions’ mission,” said District Governor B.S. Bagga of District 321E, which includes Prayagraj. “Our members embraced this project with tremendous dedication.”
The Lions’ pavilion, strategically located on the banks of the Yamuna River in Arail Sector 23, spanned an impressive 5,600 square feet comprising four Maharaja cottages and two Swiss cottages, each equipped with private washrooms, modern furnishings, and essential amenities. A kitchen provided refreshments to weary travellers throughout the day.
The service extended well beyond hospitality. Members from all 28 Lions Clubs in Prayagraj worked in rotation, providing medical assistance, guiding pilgrims through the sprawling grounds, and distributing food at various locations.
Lion Dr. V. K. Mishra organized training sessions to prepare members for effective service during the festival. “The scale of this event requires specialized knowledge,” explained Dr. Mishra. “We wanted our Lions to be fully equipped to assist pilgrims with confidence and compassion.”
For visitors with mobility challenges, Lions arranged wheelchairs, ensuring the sacred experience remains accessible to all. Lion Umesh Kakkar and fellow members committed their time, energy, and resources to meet the diverse needs of devotees.
The Lions’ presence has not gone unnoticed. Five large air balloons bearing the Lions International logo floated above the Kumbh Mela grounds, drawing attention and sparking conversations about the organization’s global humanitarian work.
Distinguished Lions from across India visited to witness this unique initiative, including PIP Dr. Naresh Aggarwal, Past International Directors Jitendra Singh Chauhan, Jagdish Gulati, R. Sampat and Vamsidhar Babu; MCC Pankaj Bijalwan and several other Lion leaders.
Lion Babita Singh Chauhan, Chairperson of the Uttar Pradesh State Women Commission, also toured the facility and commended the collaborative efforts of LIEPC and local Lions.
“This project exemplifies our motto: We Serve,” observed one visiting Lion leader. “By meeting practical needs at this profoundly spiritual gathering, we’re honoring both our humanitarian mission and the cultural significance of the Maha Kumbh.”