Can’t make it to the Maha Kumbh Mela this year? Maybe it’s the thought of navigating through a sea of millions, the impossible task of snagging a train ticket or simply the idea of walking miles that’s keeping you away. No worries; you can now take your holy dip without leaving your couch.
Welcome to the age of the ‘digital snan’.
In the heart of Prayagraj, where rivers Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati converge, an entrepreneurial mind has blended ancient rituals with modern convenience. Meet Deepak Goel, a journalist-turned-digital-dip-guru, who’s offering to immerse your photo in the Sangam for a symbolic cleanse — all this for just Rs 1,100.
“Digital darshan is already popular at many temples,” Goel tells FE.com. “I’m not the only one doing this here. There are others here who are charging up to Rs 5,100 for the same service.”
Here’s how it works: You WhatsApp your photo, Goel prints it out, and plunges the photos in the river on your behalf. While it may not feel the same, it just might bring you peace of mind (or at least a great story to share).
Goel, a journalism graduate from the Asian College of Journalism and a media professional, started this unique service on February 19. So far, only Indian citizens have signed up, but with blessings on demand going viral, it may only be a matter of time before the world dives in. Goel, however, refrained from revealing the number of such requests he has received so far.
And if Rs 1,100 feels steep? Don’t fret, a similar service advertisement is making rounds on the internet. A viral pamphlet offers digital dip services for just Rs 500, promising to “cleanse your soul” and “shower you with divine blessings”. So, whether it’s faith, fun, or FOMO driving you, the holy dip is just a click away. Who knew salvation could be so…digital?