The rising waters of the Ganga entered the sanctum sanctorum of the renowned Shri Lete Hanuman Temple at the Sangam in Prayagraj in the early hours of Sunday, marking a significant religious moment even as rising river levels across the district raised concerns over a possible flood situation.
At around 3:45 am, Ganga water entered the sanctum and touched the reclining idol of Lord Hanuman. The annual event, considered highly auspicious by devotees, was followed by traditional rituals and celebrations at the temple.
A grand aarti was performed to welcome Mother Ganga, amid the sound of drums and nagadas. Temple priest Naresh Giri and other priests conducted special rituals, including a milk abhishek, while reciting the Rudra Sukta, Hanuman Chalisa and Sundarkand.
Following the sacred bath, the deity was ceremonially adorned, after which the temple doors were closed, symbolising Lord Hanuman entering his resting state. Residents of Prayagraj had been eagerly awaiting the annual ritual bath, considered a sacred event associated with the monsoon rise in river levels.
River levels have been rising rapidly across Prayagraj district. Continuous rainfall in the upper catchment areas and heavy water discharge from several dams have led to a sharp rise in the levels of the Ganga, Yamuna, Tons and Belan rivers. Officials said around five lakh cusecs of water was being released into the Ganga from the Kanpur Barrage and Narora Dam, while nearly three lakh cusecs was being discharged into the Yamuna from the Matatila, Lahchura, Maudaha and Hathinikund dams.
With river levels rising steadily, more than a dozen urban localities and over 100 riverside villages are at risk of flooding. The district administration has issued alerts and stepped up preparedness measures. A total of 97 flood relief shelters have been established and emergency response mechanisms activated.
When the river becomes the priest, even floods turn to faith. Follow Dharmic News for more updates on temple affairs and Hindu community issues.
