Astonishing Generosity: Akharas Donate Wealth and Food at Maha Kumbh

At the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, India’s ancient akharas not only attract attention but also showcase remarkable generosity by feeding thousands and donating wealth, making it a spiritual and economic marvel.
The Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj isn’t just a spiritual congregation; it’s a testament to the extraordinary culture of giving upheld by India’s ancient akharas. While Naga sadhus often steal the limelight with their striking appearances and spiritual austerities, what many people don’t know is that these akharas attend the Kumbh not to take donations but to give them. From feeding thousands daily to making significant monetary donations, the akharas exemplify a unique blend of spirituality and generosity.
Feeding Thousands with Daily Prasad
Every day during the Maha Kumbh, the akharas operate massive food services, known as “ann kshetras,” where thousands of pilgrims and devotees are served prasad. After partaking in the sacred meal, visitors are also given a small monetary token called “daan ghisai,” a tradition unique to these gatherings. The scale of this operation is immense, with a single akhara spending nearly ?25 lakh daily on food and other offerings.
Structured Financial Management in Akharas
The financial operations of the akharas are as meticulous as they are generous. According to Mahant Ravindra Puri, Secretary of the Panchayati Akhara Shri Niranjani and President of the Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad, akharas maintain a detailed record of every rupee spent. Positions such as “munshi” (accountant), “pradhan” (chief), and “kothar” (treasurer) ensure that the financial system runs smoothly. Impressively, the accounts are audited by chartered accountants, and income tax returns are filed regularly, reflecting the akharas’ commitment to transparency.
Where Does the Money Come From?
The akharas are self-sufficient entities. Their primary income sources include revenue from agricultural land, rent from properties, and donations collected at affiliated temples and monasteries. Unlike common perceptions, the akharas bring this wealth to the Maha Kumbh to spend on charity. Mahant Ravindra Puri revealed that over ?10 crore is spent by Shri Niranjani Akhara alone during the month-long event.
A Tradition Rooted in Ancient Values
Tracing its roots to King Harshavardhana’s time, this tradition of giving has been sustained for centuries. Akharas save their income for six years, preparing for the grand occasion of the Maha Kumbh, where they can engage in large-scale charity. As Mahant Ravindra Puri puts it, “The land of Prayagraj is sacred not just for householders but also for saints. Here, we earn spiritual merit by donating what we have, just like the great King Harshavardhana.”
Challenges in Financial Compliance
Despite their noble intentions, akharas have occasionally faced challenges in financial compliance. For instance, a minor error in filing income tax returns once resulted in a penalty worth crores of rupees for the Shri Niranjani Akhara. This incident highlights the complexity of managing finances for organizations deeply rooted in tradition yet navigating modern financial systems.
The Symbolic Role of Naga Sadhus
Beyond their financial contributions, the akharas and their Naga sadhus play a symbolic role in preserving and showcasing India’s spiritual heritage. Their dramatic processions, austere lifestyles, and unwavering devotion attract millions of pilgrims, reinforcing the cultural significance of the Kumbh Mela. However, it is their quiet acts of generosity that leave a lasting impact on the millions who partake in their prasad and blessings.
The Economic Impact of Generosity
The Maha Kumbh Mela is not just a spiritual phenomenon but also an economic powerhouse. The funds spent by the akharas contribute significantly to the local economy, creating employment opportunities for vendors, cooks, and logistics providers. Additionally, the influx of pilgrims boosts the tourism and hospitality sectors, making the Maha Kumbh a vital event for both spiritual and economic reasons.