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Reckitt, the global leader in consumer health and hygiene, is once again partnering with the Global Interfaith WASH Alliance (GIWA), AJ Foundation, Plan India, and Jagran Pehel for its flagship campaign, Dettol Banega Swasth India (DBSI), to ensure a Swachh (clean) and Swasth (healthy) Maha Kumbh Mela 2025. This collaboration reinforces Reckitt's mission to transform public health and hygiene, supporting the nation’s Viksit Bharat @ 2047 agenda by embedding hygiene as a cornerstone for better health.
Since its inception in 2016, Dettol Banega Swasth India has been a key partner in various Kumbh Mela events, including Ardh Kumbh and Magh Melas across Varanasi, Nashik, and Ujjain. With the upcoming Maha Kumbh Mela expected to attract 45 crore devotees, DBSI is set to play a crucial role in promoting hygiene practices during this significant event.
As part of the campaign, millions of soaps will be distributed at food-serving areas across the Mela grounds to encourage devotees to wash their hands before and after meals. Additionally, the campaign will provide training and hygiene products to nearly 15,000 sanitation workers. The initiative also includes the deployment of health and hygiene volunteers across all 25 sectors of the Kumbh, offering guidance and support to the pilgrims.
A special focus will be given to Kalpvasis—devotees staying for the entire 45 days of the Mela—who will receive soaps and hygiene messages to encourage regular handwashing. DBSI will also engage devotees through traditional Nukkad Nataks (street plays), spreading awareness about the importance of hygiene.
Gaurav Jain, Executive Vice President, Reckitt – South Asia, said, “At Reckitt, we believe that health and well-being of communities are the foundation of true progress. The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 provides a unique opportunity to embed hygiene practices into one of India’s most culturally significant events. We are delighted to take ahead our long-standing partnership with the Government of Uttar Pradesh and GIWA to reaffirm our commitment to Viksit Bharat @ 2047, ensuring that hygiene is the cornerstone of a cleaner, healthier India.”
Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji, President, Parmarth Niketan Ashram, Rishikesh and Co-Founder, Global Interfaith WASH Alliance, added, “I have been associated with Banega Swasth India and thrilled to witness its impactful presence at Maha Kumbh Mela 2025. By leveraging engaging initiatives such as street plays, puppet shows, and distributing planters, we aim to empower individuals to become ambassadors of change, driving a collective movement towards a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable society.”
Mohammed Asif, Executive Director, Plan India, said, “Our collaboration with Dettol Banega Swasth India is a testament to the power of collective action in driving meaningful change in communities. At the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, we are proud to contribute to this monumental effort to instill hygiene practices among millions of devotees. By reaching out to diverse communities, we are reinforcing the importance of hand hygiene and driving positive behavioural change for a healthier tomorrow.”
Bidhu Bhushan Panda, Chairperson, AJ Foundation, stated, “We are proud to collaborate with Banega Swasth India at the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, amplifying critical messages on health and hygiene. As a vibrant celebration of unity and spiritual growth, the Maha Kumbh embodies humanity's collective commitment to a healthier, more sustainable future. Together, we aim to inspire awareness, drive meaningful change, and leave a lasting legacy that resonates with all participants.”
Sameer Gupta, Treasurer, Jagran Pehel, said, “Jagran Pehel is deeply honoured to support DBSI at Maha Kumbh 2025, the largest religious gathering in the world. Maha Kumbh Mela is not just a gathering; it is a profound celebration of faith, devotion, and unity. Through our far-reaching impact and meaningful advocacy, we are committed to uplifting the spirit of this sacred event and championing initiatives that enhance its purpose and legacy for millions of devotees.”
Dettol Banega Swasth India continues its long-standing commitment to advancing public health and hygiene in India. Through this partnership, Reckitt and its collaborators aim to ensure that hygiene consciousness becomes an integral part of the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, inspiring millions of pilgrims to adopt healthier practices and moving the nation closer to its goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047.
