The grand Maha Kumbh 2025 commenced on January 13 in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, marking the sacred occasion of Paush Purnima. This spiritual event draws millions of devotees to the holy banks of the Ganga, where they take ritualistic dips in the river’s waters. Among the highlights of this revered gathering are the saints and spiritual leaders who travel from across India and the globe to partake in the festivities.
This year, one personality, in particular, has caught the internet’s attention. A video featuring a stunning Sadhvi, later identified as Harsha Richhariya, has gone viral, captivating viewers worldwide. Her graceful presence at the Maha Kumbh Mela has sparked widespread curiosity, with many eager to learn more about her.
Harsha Richhariya: A Viral Sensation at the Maha Kumbh
The mesmerizing Sadhvi has even been interviewed about her spiritual journey, but internet sleuths soon uncovered surprising details. It turns out that Harsha Richhariya is not solely a spiritual leader but also a content creator and social media influencer.
Who Is Harsha Richhariya?
Harsha Richhariya is a 30-year-old influencer, actor, and anchor who has explored various realms, including hosting events and traveling internationally. Despite adopting the life of a Sadhvi two years ago, Harsha continues to host events, including destination weddings, as evidenced by her Instagram posts. Notably, she recently served as a host at a wedding in Mandalay, Myanmar.
Harsha Richhariya मैम ने कल एक इंटरव्यू में कहा कि उन्होंने दो साल पहले सांसारिक जीवन त्याग कर सन्यास धारण लिया,
जबकि इस पोस्टर में उनकी फोटो के साथ साफ लिखा हुआ है कि दो महीने पहले वो बैंकाक में Show कर रही थीं, इसका मतलब क्या समझे…? pic.twitter.com/wHOCOcTrKE— ममता राजगढ़ (@rajgarh_mamta1) January 13, 2025
Harsha has also featured in devotional music albums and uses her social media platform to promote events like the Maha Kumbh 2025. In one of her videos, she described her decision to embrace spirituality, sharing insights into her transformation.
Her Spiritual Path
Currently, Harsha identifies herself as a disciple of Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Swami Shri Kailashnandgiri Ji Maharaj of the Niranjani Akhara. Her Instagram bio reflects her spiritual devotion and Uttarakhand roots, and her content often revolves around religious themes and practices.
The Viral Video That Sparked Conversations
In a now-viral clip, Harsha is seen sitting in a chariot, gracefully answering questions from a reporter or YouTuber. When asked about her beauty and why she chose the path of a Sadhvi, her response resonated with many.
She explained,
“I am from Uttarakhand and a disciple of Acharya Mahamandaleshwar.”
When questioned about her choice to leave behind a glamorous life, she said,
“I left behind what I needed to and embraced this path. I chose the life of a Sadhvi for inner peace.”
She elaborated further, saying,
“When you achieve so much in life—acting, anchoring, traveling the world—you realize that none of it brings true peace. You may have fame and recognition, but no solace. When devotion starts to draw you in, you turn away from worldly connections and immerse yourself in prayer, hymns, and devotion to God.”
During the interview, she also confirmed her past as an actress.
Reactions from Netizens
The video elicited mixed reactions. While some praised her for leaving behind a life of fame and materialism to follow a spiritual path, others questioned the authenticity of her transformation.
उत्तराखंड से प्रयागराज महाकुम्भ पहुंची 30 साल की आयु की सुन्दर साध्वी का यह इंटरव्यू वायरल हो रहा है। चकाचौंध छोड़ 2 साल पहले सन्यास लेकर साध्वी बनी..अब जीवन धर्म के नाम। #MahaKumbhMela2025#MahaKumbh #KumbhMela #kumbh pic.twitter.com/dKrEsFJH3V
— TRUE STORY (@TrueStoryUP) January 13, 2025
Kumbh me keh rahi hai 2 saal se Sadhvi hu..🤦♂️🤦♂️🥴
Kuch hafte pehle ki Dubai ki reel 👇🥴Aur humari media as usual bina enquiry kiye iski media byte daal ke famous kar rahi hai ise..🤦♂️🤦♂️🥴 pic.twitter.com/QZcGt0EgFG
— 🇮🇳Rohit🇮🇳 (@Rohit_p__) January 13, 2025
इस साध्वी की असली जिंदगी देखिए !
यह गिद्ध है
यह सिर्फ इंस्टाग्राम पर अपने फ़ॉलोअर्स बढ़ाने के लिए शूपर्णखा की तरह रूप बदलकर आई है pic.twitter.com/KIOws4MkSw
— 🇮🇳Jitendra pratap singh🇮🇳 (@jpsin1) January 13, 2025
Kumbh me keh rahi hai 2 saal se Sadhvi hu..🤦♂️🤦♂️🥴
Kuch hafte pehle ki Dubai ki reel 👇🥴Aur humari media as usual bina enquiry kiye iski media byte daal ke famous kar rahi hai ise..🤦♂️🤦♂️🥴 pic.twitter.com/QZcGt0EgFG
— 🇮🇳Rohit🇮🇳 (@Rohit_p__) January 13, 2025
जिस महिला को महाकुंभ में दिव्य साध्वी बताया जा रहा है आइए उनका पूरा सच बताती हूं….
ये एक एंकर, ब्लॉगर, फिटनेस ट्रेनर है या रही है और इनको एक महात्मा जैसा सम्मान दिया जा रहा है
जबकि इन्होने खुद बताया कि मैं आचार्य महामंडलेश्वर की शिष्या हूँ उत्तराखंड से आई हूं
क्या आचार्य जी… pic.twitter.com/Tgg93B10Kk
— Anshika Singh Yadav (@Anshika_in) January 12, 2025
Although some online clips couldn’t directly confirm her identity, many admired Harsha Richhariya’s journey and her choice to embrace spirituality wholeheartedly.
What are your thoughts on Harsha Richhariya’s story? Share your views in the comments below