As preparations for Maha Kumbh 2025 gain momentum, the Yogi Adityanath government is expediting the beautification of the sacred Akshayavat Corridor, aiming to enhance the spiritual experience for millions of pilgrims. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath recently reviewed the progress of the ambitious beautification project and instructed officials to accelerate the work and ensure that the site is ready to welcome devotees. Akshayavat, a 300-year-old tree of great mythological significance in Sanatan Dharma, is considered a crucial stop for pilgrims. It is believed that after bathing in the sacred waters of Sangam, ones pilgrimage is complete only after offering prayers at Akshayavat. The blessings sought here are thought to fulfill the spiritual aspirations of devotees, making it a focal point for saints and pilgrims during the grand festival. To provide a divine and renewed experience in Kumbh Nagri, the state government has announced a significant budget. The aim is to showcase the grandeur of the holy city and emphasise its cultural and spiritual heritage as the Maha Kumbh approaches, with Akshayavat serving as a key centre of faith for visitors. When Lord Ram visited Bharadwaj Munis ashram in Sangamnagari during his journey to the forest, Muni narrated the significance of the Banyan tree. Mother Sita blessed the Banyan tree, and it was the only tree to survive when the earth submerged during the deluge. This sacred tree is known today as Akshayavat. Akshayavat is also mentioned in the Raghuvansh by the great poet Kalidas, as well as in the travelogue of Chinese traveler Hiuen Tsang. It is believed that just seeing Akshayavat grants one akshaya punya (eternal virtue). India is home to four such ancient Banyan trees: Akshayavat in Prayagraj, Griddhavat in Soron (Shukar Kshetra), Siddhavat in Ujjain, and Vanshivat in Vrindavan. Akshayavat has witnessed centuries of challenges and revival. Located within Akbars fort on the banks of the Yamuna, public access to this sacred tree was restricted during the Mughal era. Even during British rule and after Indias independence, the fort remained under military control, making it rare for people to see the tree.  In 2018, the Yogi government lifted these restrictions, opening the path for devotees to visit and worship Akshayavat. The state government also approved several development projects to enhance pilgrimages to sites of mythological importance. As part of this, work on the Akshayavat Corridor is currently underway to improve access and beautify the area.  Swami Dilip Das Tyagi, head of Shri Ram Janaki Mahal in Ayodhya, shared the fascinating history of Akshayavat. He recounted that during the Mughal period, many attempts were made to destroy the tree by cutting and burning it, but Akshayavat would miraculously regenerate within a few months. Despite repeated efforts, the tree returned to its original form, symbolising resilience and immortality.  Swami Tyagi praised the Yogi governments beautification efforts, emphasising that pilgrims will have the opportunity to experience spiritual blessings by visiting Akshayavat after bathing in the Sangam during the upcoming Maha Kumbh 2025.

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