Allahabad High Court prohibits media from publishing pics of bathing women at Kumbh Mela

February 10: The Allahabad High Court on Saturday directed that no photographs of women bathing or taking a holy dip at the Kumbh Mela site in Prayagraj can be published. The apex court warned of action if the order is violated. The pictures will not be published in either the print or visual media, added the court. The Court has directed the Fair Officer that any videography and photography in bathing ghats have to be banned.

According to reports, the petition was filed by advocate Asim Kumar seeking ban on photographs in bathing spots. The Bench of Justice PKS Baghel and Justice Pankaj Bhatia have expressed displeasure over photography and videography on bathing ghats in Kumbh Mela premises.

A senior superintendent of police (Kumbh) directed the policemen and other security personnel in the Kumbh Mela premises to ensure that no one clicks pictures at the bathing ghats. A senior official added that notice boards were set up with the warning of the High Court’s directive on the photography ban imposed at certain areas.

The Kumbh Mela comprises of many rituals including bathing ritual, which by far is the most significant ritual performed at Kumbh. Millions of pilgrims take part in the Kumbh bathing ritual at the Triveni Sangam. Performing this sacred ceremony is in accordance with the belief that by submerging oneself in the holy waters, one is purged of all their sins, release themselves and their ancestors from the cycle of rebirth and ultimate attainment of Moksha.

Kumbhamela is a grand event that is held in the month of the Hindu month of Magha in every 12 years. While the Ardha Kumbh Mela is held every six years, the Maha Kumbha is held every 12 years at Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh. This year it has begun on January 15 to continue till March 4.