Prayagraj, Jan 15: Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, the world’s largest spiritual gathering, is a breathtaking confluence of faith, tradition, and culture, where timeless rituals meet the vibrant energy of devotees from across the globe.
Amidst the spirituality and enthusiasm of the festival, an interesting story of a teenage girl whose perspective on life took a dramatic turn during her visit to the Maha Kumbh has emerged. A thirteen-year-old girl from Agra has chosen the serene path of becoming a sadhvi over her ambitious dream of becoming an IAS officer after being drawn by a profound spiritual calling during the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj.
Rakhi, the eldest daughter of Sandeep Singh, a confectioner, and his wife Reema, has been staying at the Maha Kumbh camp with her family since last month. They were invited by Mahant Kaushal Giri Maharaj of the Juna Akhara, a revered spiritual leader who has been closely associated with the family.
Her parents said that her decision was inspired by a profound sense of detachment that she experienced at the Mela.
Rakhi’s family is deeply spiritual and had rented a house in Prayagraj to support the education of Rakhi and her eight-year-old sister Nikki.
Speaking about her daughter’s life-altering decision, Reema shared, “Mahant Kaushal Giri Maharaj has been visiting our village for Bhagwat Katha sessions over the past three years. During one such session, Rakhi took her guru diksha. She later expressed her desire to become a sadhvi, and we saw it as God’s will.”
“Rakhi always dreamed of becoming an IAS officer. But during the Maha Kumbh, she felt detached from worldly life,” said Reema.
Mahant Kaushal Giri confirmed the family’s decision. He emphasized that it was made willingly and without any coercion. “The family has been connected to us for some time. At their request, Rakhi has been accepted into the ashram. She will now be known as Gauri Giri,” he said.
When questioned if she had any worries about her daughter’s future, Reema said, “As a mother, I will always worry about her well-being. On the other hand, relatives also question our decision. But we firmly believe this was God’s wish.”
According to members of the Juna Akhara, Rakhi’s formal initiation into ascetic life, including the “pind daan” ceremony—a ritual symbolizing renunciation—will take place on January 19. Following this, she will be considered a formal part of her guru’s spiritual family.
Rakhi’s extraordinary decision to leave behind worldly aspirations for a life of devotion has touched many.
