Faith can move mountains, and for one determined devotee from Mumbai, it has fuelled an extraordinary journey on two wheels. Gaurav Suryakant Rane, unable to secure train or flight tickets, has set out on a solo adventure from Mumbai to Prayagraj on his scooter, determined to take a holy dip at the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025.

Mumbai to Maha Kumbh on a scooter

Gaurav had long dreamt of witnessing the grand confluence at Prayagraj during Maha Kumbh. However, with thousands of pilgrims making their way to the sacred event, tickets were nearly impossible to get. Flight prices had skyrocketed, and train seats were unavailable. Rather than giving up on his spiritual aspiration, he embarked on the long and difficult journey alone on his scooter.

On January 26, with just a backpack and Google Maps for guidance, he quietly left his home without informing anyone, determined to reach Prayagraj by Vasant Panchami.

To make his pilgrimage even more special, Gaurav planned his route to include stops at various spiritual landmarks. According to media reports, his journey has taken him through Trayambakeshwar, Omkareshwar, Mamleshwar, Ujjain Mahakal, Kaal Bhairav Maharaj, Jhansi, Orchha village, and Chitrakoot, with plans to visit six to seven Jyotirlingas along the way. He travels only during daylight hours, ensuring he finds a safe place to rest at night, whether in a hotel or dharamshala.

His scooter, featuring the sign "Mumbai to Maha Kumbh," has become his trusted companion. Covering nearly 1,500 kilometres so far, he is not discouraged by the travel costs or the challenges of the road. For him, the experience is priceless, and the opportunity to witness Maha Kumbh in such a unique way is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.