Prayagraj, Jan 22 – Amid the chants of “Har Har Mahadev” and “Jai Ganga Maiyya” at the Maha Kumbh Mela, the ISKCON Mega Kitchen has become a cornerstone of devotion and service, feeding over 1 lakh devotees daily. Led by Head Chef Ajit Mukund Das, the kitchen is a remarkable blend of faith and technology, operating seamlessly to nourish pilgrims attending the grand religious gathering.
“This isn’t just food; it’s Prasad, blessed by the divine,” said Chef Das, explaining that the kitchen’s furnaces are named after gods. The preparations begin at 2 am, with pulses soaked a day in advance and spices meticulously prepped. By 5 am, the cooking starts, and by 9 am, Prasad for 50,000 devotees is ready. On Snan (holy bath) days, the kitchen scales up to serve over 1 lakh devotees.
The Mega Kitchen employs advanced technology and precise coordination. Massive vessels, moved by tracks and cranes, simmer with fragrant curries and dals, while a roti machine churns out 7,000 rotis per hour. Women volunteers, working in shifts, handle vegetable preparation, ensuring a steady flow of ingredients, as per ANI.
Deen Gopal Das, the kitchen manager, credited the Adani family for enhancing the kitchen’s capacity tenfold. “In 2013, we could only serve 5,000-10,000 devotees daily. Today, thanks to their support, we can serve up to 1 lakh. We are grateful for their contributions in taking ISKCON’s Mega Kitchen to another level
The Prasad, comprising at least five dishes, is distributed through 15 points across 20 designated locations. The system ensures no devotee leaves hungry, even as the faithful brave cold weather for a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam.
Auspicious Occasion and Spiritual Connection
This year’s Maha Kumbh is described as the most auspicious in 144 years due to rare celestial alignments. From January 13 to February 26, the uninterrupted Mahaprasad Seva embodies the synergy of devotion and precision.
“Whatever we are doing is happening through the power of God,” Chef Das remarked, reflecting the spiritual ethos driving the operation.
With its blend of technology, devotion, and community service, the ISKCON Mega Kitchen stands as a testament to the enduring faith of millions attending the Maha Kumbh Mela.
