Nashik, Aug 11: Amidst stepped up security, hundreds of devotees from across the country have thronged this pilgrim city for the 'Shahi Snan' (royal bath), the first major event of the ongoing Kumbhhmela, scheduled for tomorrow on the banks of the Godavari in Trimbakeshwar. Nasik road railway station has become a virtual sea of people, with hundreds coming here to have a holy dip in the Godavari and many waiting there before travelling to the major venues of the mela--Ramkund, Tapowan, Trimbakeshwar and dozens of temples in the area.

The civil authorities have pulled all stops to help the commoners and 'sanaysis' who flock to this city, with civil assistance booths in key locations and special bus services to the major venues which run late into the night, officials said. The weather gods continued their relentless rain-lashing with the Godavari flowing fiercely, brimming on the banks.
There would be three royal baths each at the two major venues, Trimbakeshwar and nashik. At Trimbakeshwar, it would be held on August 12, 27, and September 7 and at Nashik on August 17, 27 and September 1.

Bureau Report