A Soulful Road Trip to Prayagraj-Mahakumbh

 Last month, I embarked on a 650-km road trip to Prayagraj, driven by the occasion of the recently concluded Mahakumbh. For me, it wasn’t just a journey across distances, but a deep dive into nostalgia, spirituality, and the spirit of community. The city, a place where I spent five life-changing months during my college days, was now teeming with pilgrims and visitors from all corners of the world. I couldn't help but reflect on the past, when I trained at Naini for five months, commuting daily between Allahabad and Naini on the COD Express.

A Journey of Reflection

Over five decades ago, during my college days, I used to travel daily between Naini and Allahabad, a journey that took me through the heart of this vibrant city. Back then, the COD Express was my lifeline, and the landscape of Prayagraj was much simpler. The city, while always a bustling hub of history and culture, had an air of serenity to it. But today, much had changed. The roads were wider, the infrastructure modernized, yet, despite the changes, there remained a thread of continuity—the spiritual energy of the place that never faded.

One of the highlights of the trip was the boat ride from the Boat Club to the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati. As our boat gently sailed through the water, I was taken aback by the sheer sight of humanity that lined the riverbanks. Pilgrims bathed in the holy waters, seeking redemption, while thousands of migratory birds from Siberia dotted the skies above us. It was an awe-inspiring sight—an entire ecosystem at work, with the land, water, and sky merging into one divine experience.

For a moment, time seemed to stand still, and I could feel the weight of centuries of tradition that this sacred place represented. The boat ride wasn't just about reaching a destination; it was about connecting to something deeper, something ancient. My heart felt lighter as I absorbed the serenity of the Sangam, even amidst the chaos around me.

A City Embracing Its Visitors 

Despite the overwhelming crowds and the never-ending streams of devotees, Prayagraj managed to retain its grace. The roads were often blocked by the constant flow of people, but it did not affect the city’s sanitation or its hospitality. In fact, it was remarkable to see how clean and well-maintained the city was, considering the number of visitors who flooded it during the Kumbh.

The authorities had ensured that the city remained organized, with efficient waste management systems in place, allowing the pilgrims to focus on their spiritual journey without distractions. At night, the city transformed into a glowing wonderland, with glittering lights illuminating the streets. The city, dressed in these lights, felt like a heaven on Earth, welcoming devotees with open arms and offering them a sense of peace amidst the chaos.

Nostalgia at the Indian Coffee House

No visit to Prayagraj would be complete without a trip to the iconic Indian Coffee House at Civil Lines. As I stepped inside after five decades, the familiar aroma of coffee and the retro ambience flooded me with nostalgia. The same ceiling fans, the old wooden tables, and the unchanging vibe reminded me of the many hours spent there during my student days. It was a place where time seemed to slow down, conversations flowed freely, and the outside world faded away.

Each sip of the coffee felt like a moment frozen in time, and for a brief moment, I was transported back to my younger days, sitting with friends and discussing everything from politics to philosophy. It was a nostalgic reunion with the past that felt both comforting and bittersweet.

Unforgettable Hospitality

The highlight of my visit, however, was the warmth and kindness I experienced from our hosts in Civil Lines. In a city so filled with devotees, their hospitality stood out. They went beyond mere politeness, offering us their love, kindness, and generosity in ways that felt like a true embodiment of the human spirit. Whether it was helping us navigate the crowded streets or sharing stories of their own lives, our hosts made us feel like family. Their hospitality was a reminder that, at the heart of all pilgrimages and celebrations, it is the human connection that makes the journey worthwhile.

Conclusion

This road trip to Prayagraj, with its blend of nostalgia, spirituality, and kindness, was an experience that touched my soul. It reminded me that, while cities evolve and change, the essence of what makes them special—whether it's the people, the traditions, or the natural beauty—remains timeless. The Mahakumbh was a celebration of faith, but it was also a celebration of the enduring human spirit, a spirit that I felt deeply connected to during my journey.