Magh Mela 2026: Akhilesh Backs Shankaracharya Amidst Chariot Controversy, Kinnar Akhara Expands

• Mauni Amavasya at Prayagraj Magh Mela saw crores of devotees brave cold and fog for a holy dip at Sangam.
• Jagadguru Rambhadracharya criticized Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand for bathing in a chariot, calling it against scriptures.
• SP chief Akhilesh Yadav expressed support for Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand over the phone.
• The Sanatani Kinnar Akhara expanded, appointing 6 Mahamandaleshwars and 4 Mahants, including women and men, to propagate Sanatan Dharma.
• Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand alleged mistreatment by Mela administration, vowing to approach the High Court, while the administration denied stopping anyone from bathing.

Why It Matters: Magh Mela 2026 was marked by massive devotion, a chariot controversy involving Shankaracharya, and Kinnar Akhara expansion.