New Delhi: The Uttar Pradesh government is aiming to create four Guinness World Records during Mahakumbh, the largest religious gathering globally, to be held from January 13 next year.
The first record aims to include the largest synchronised sweeping drive, with 15,000 participants joining hands to carry out a coordinated cleaning effort. The record seeks to underscore the importance of cleanliness and environmental responsibility as central values of the Mahakumbh. It intends to reinforce the message of shared responsibility in preserving the sanctity of the sacred gathering, according to authorities.
The second record will aim at the largest e-vehicle parade, which will feature 1,000 e-rickshaws and e-vehicles for eco-friendly pilgrimage. It underlines the government’s dedication to promote sustainable transport methods, which can cut carbon emissions, and make connectivity during the Kumbh a environmentally-benign affair.
The third record is trying to create the most handprint paintings within 8 hours. This will involve 10,000 participants. This record highlights the essence and grandeur of Maha Kumbh, and underlines the diversity and unity of its participants. Each handprint embodies the spirit of unity and reflects the shared values that define the religious event.
The fourth record will be the largest river-cleaning campaign, involving 300 volunteers across multiple locations in Prayagraj. It seeks to highlight the world’s biggest religious and spiritual event’s emphasis on protecting the environment and its spiritual link to nature.
Special team formed
A special team has been set up by the government in coordination with the Prayagraj Mela Authority to script these records at the gala event. This team will coordinate with Guinness World Records officials and carefully ensure that all necessary procedures and standards are met and adhered to.
The special team will create a verification process to precisely track participant numbers for each record attempt and develop SOPs outlining event plans, work steps, and process checks for each record category. In addition to this, the team will work with Guinness World Records to finalise the SOP, obtain approval, and conduct a walkthrough of the finalised procedures.