In the Magh Mela, which has become the center of faith in Prayagraj, amidst the chanting of mantras and spiritual atmosphere, the various expressions and strange behavior of the sadhus attract a lot of attention. A 26-year-old sadhu from Sitamarhi district of Bihar is continuously attracting everyone for his unique spiritual vow. He claims that he has not sat or lay down for the last seven years.
This young sadhu, known as Shankarpuri, was seen standing on one leg at the Magh Mela. He also uses a wooden support to support his head while sleeping. He says that from eating to worshiping, he does all his daily work while standing.
Speaking to PTI Video, Shankarpuri said, “I am a resident of Naimisharanya. It is believed that 88 thousand sages live there. I was born there and I also have an ashram at that holy place. From that land, the thought came in my mind that I should stand. I have been a saint since the age of six.” When asked if he ever sits or lies down, the monk replied, “I have been standing for seven years.”
On the question of how he rests, the young monk said that he sleeps while standing with his head on something like a wooden cradle. He further said, “Food, water and all daily tasks are done in this posture.”
Magh Mela has for centuries been a platform where sages and saints perform different and often very difficult forms of penance and spiritual discipline. They attract pilgrims and devotees from all over the country.
Magh Mela is a religious event of 44 days. This fair, which started on January 3, will conclude on February 15. During this period, lakhs of devotees are expected to take a holy dip in the Sangam.
