Prayagraj: Amidst differences within the Shri Panchayat Akhara Bada Udasin, the new mahant of the Pashchim (West) Panghat of the akhara was finally coronated on Monday. The coronation of the new mahant, Ram Naumi Das, took place at the akhara premises in Kydganj.
Das was coronated in the presence of representatives from all 13 akharas. Earlier, on Sunday, the new mahant of the Pashchim Panghat was selected in the presence of saints, Mahants, and Mahamandaleshwars from all four panghats of the akhara at the Panchayat Akhara Bada Udasin premises. Everyone unanimously agreed on the name of Baba Ram Naumi Das of Harihar Udasin Ashram, New Delhi.
Ram Naumi Das, a disciple of Brahmalin Saint Guru Sharan Das, was a recluse since childhood. He was known for his rigorous sadhana amidst the water stream. Seeing his sadhana, dedication, and loyalty towards the akhara, saints from all over the country unanimously elected him as the mahant of the Pashchim Panghat.
After the selection, the Aghan Purnima Puja was performed in the ancient temple of the akhara on Sunday itself.
After this, the new mahant reached the Sangam, where he was given a bath in the Triveni. Following this, he was welcomed upon his entry into the akhara.
On Monday, along with the formal announcement of his selection, he was installed on the throne.
Meanwhile, Mahant Raghumuni Das, who was replaced by the new mahant, said on Sunday that he cannot be removed from the post of mahant of Paschim Panghat. He stated that the process of election is unconstitutional. He has taken refuge in the court against this and received a stay order from the court. On this basis, he claims to remain the mahant of Paschim Panghat till now.