NEW DELHI, INDIA, January 14, 2001: Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee is apparently keen, along with tens of millions of Hindu pilgrims at the Maha Kumbh Mela now on in Allahabad, to immerse himself in purificatory waters. Official sources say the Special Protection Group responsible for Vajpayee’s security is less than enthusiastic given the enormous logistical problems. The PM reportedly wants to participate in the most auspicious day — January 24 — when as many as 30 million people are expected to take a purificatory dip at the spot where the holy Ganges and Yamuna rivers converge near the town of Allahabad.
A daily summary of world news for Hindus and non-Hindus alike