The Maha Shakti Kumbh India Women’s Summit & Retreat, held in the sacred embrace of the Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj, was a profound gathering of spiritual and social transformation.

 

The Summit itself took place in Parmarth Niketan Ashram’s Kumbh Camp, which was truly inspiring in its commitment to being eco-friendly—an example to emulate in taking care of both people and the planet.

The summit centered on the powerful themes of Shakti (Power), Samannata (Equality), and Samriddhi (Prosperity), bringing together over 100 participants and women leaders from diverse backgrounds, including public life, business, education, and wellness, who gathered in spiritual fervour to amplify the voice and agency of women in shaping a more just and inclusive world where all can thrive. 

 

Set against the sacred backdrop of the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the holy rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati, the summit facilitated deep dialogues, spiritual practices, and collective action aimed at strengthening both the self and society. Summit participants also experienced holy dips at the Triveni Sangam (confluence of the three rivers), engaged in yoga, meditation, and devotional practices such as havan (holy fire ritual) and kirtan (collective singing), drawing strength from the timeless spiritual fervour of the Maha Kumbh, a hallmark event in India’s ancient and abiding spiritual legacy. This mammoth spiritual event and human saga of devotion is also recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. Held every 12 years, it attracts an estimated 500 million visitors.

 

The event was inaugurated by esteemed dignitaries and eminent personalities, including: 

• Dr. Sadhvi Bhagwati Saraswati, Spiritual Leader and President of the Divine Shakti Foundation. 

• Shri Arjun Munda, Former Union Minister and Ex-Chief Minister of Jharkhand. 

• Dr. Harbeen Arora Rai, Founder, G100

• Priyanka Chaturvedi, MP, Rajya Sabha

• Aditi Singh, MLA and Member of the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly

• Ira Chaturvedi, Yoga Acharya and Wellness Expert

• Parul Sharma Jesudasan, Group President of Reliance Group (ADA), among others 

• Vinay Rai, Founder, Zero Hunger Mission 

 

Pujya Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati highlighted the privilege of participating in the Kumbh Mela, emphasizing that, “Women’s empowerment is not about making women powerful; women are inherently powerful. It’s about recognizing and acknowledging that strength within.” Shri Arjun Munda underscored the importance of preserving the energy that sustains life and the unique wisdom that Indian culture offers in maintaining the balance of life. He spoke of the deep connection between nature and the tribal community, describing how their energy and wisdom are a vital part of India’s strength. Vinay Rai remarked, “Prayagraj can become a super destination for spiritual healing and upliftment year-round and not just during Kumbh, as it now has fabulous infrastructure.” Dr. Harbeen Arora Rai elaborated, “The celebration of Maha Shakti Kumbh is a profound tribute to the Nari Shakti, the feminine power that embodies the sacred principles of nature and nurture. Just as the rivers at Triveni Sangam symbolize care, cleansing, power, purification, love, and life, may we honor the divine feminine within and around us.”

 

A symbolic tree-planting ceremony was held, reinforcing the deep connection between Mother Nature and the Divine Feminine, emphasizing that nurturing the environment goes hand in hand with empowering women in society. The Ganga Aarti Pledge brought together eminent women leaders—including cultural icons, entrepreneurs, and social reformers—who reaffirmed their commitment to advancing gender transformation and empowerment.

A significant highlight of the event was the launch of the book Shakti Sutras: 108 Sutras for Peace and Prosperity by Dr. Harbeen Arora Rai and Vinay Rai. This book serves as a guiding light for those seeking transformation through ancient wisdom and modern insights.

The Maha Shakti Kumbh India Women’s Summit & Retreat was not just a moment of reflection but a spark for long-lasting impact. Plans are underway for follow-up gatherings and collaborative initiatives to ensure these conversations lead to meaningful change.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our partners—Parmarth Niketan, GIWA, and WICCI—for their unwavering support in making this vision a reality. Together, we are not just celebrating women’s power but awakening a collective force of courage, confidence, and consciousness that will transform our world for generations to come.

Convenor

Sadhvi Bhagwati Saraswati 

G100 Global Chair, Healing Circles Wing