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Dover Honors Cherished Former Mayor and Harley Enthusiast with Street Renaming

Dover is preparing to bid farewell to one of its most cherished and devoted public figures this Thursday.

Just prior to the passing of former Mayor Aldo Cicchetti this week, townspeople and local leaders gathered at his family home to pay tribute to him.

On Friday, outside his childhood home on Chrystal Street, family members observed as current Mayor James Dodd unveiled a street sign designating the intersection of Chrystal and Morris streets as “Mayor Cicchetti Place.”

A familiar presence in his hometown, Cicchetti served 26 years in local government and was often seen riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle to and from Town Hall. He passed away at his home on Monday at the age of 87.

The town of Dover honored the corner of Chrystal and Morris streets as "Mayor Cicchetti Place" just three days before former public servant Aldo Cicchetti passed away on January 13 at the age of 87.

Dover Remembers Aldo Cicchetti

Visitation is set for 4 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday at Tuttle Funeral Home on Route 10 in Randolph. The funeral service will take place at 11 a.m. Thursday at Sacred Heart Parish in Dover, followed by burial at Locust Hill Cemetery.

“Aldo’s leadership was characterized not by specific projects but by his unwavering dedication to the people of Dover,” remarked Dodd during the dedication.

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2025 Harley-Davidson Models Now Available at Dealerships Worldwide

MANILA: Harley-Davidson has announced that certain models from its 2025 lineup are now available at authorized dealerships around the globe.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • Which Harley-Davidson model families are currently accessible at authorized dealers worldwide?


    According to Harley-Davidson, models from both the Grand American Touring and Trike families for 2025 are now available at authorized dealerships.

  • What custom program has Harley-Davidson introduced for 2025?


    Harley-Davidson has launched the Custom Paint and Graphics program for 2025.

  • The available models include motorcycles from the Harley-Davidson Grand American Touring and Trike families.

    2025 Harley-Davidson Models Now Available at Dealerships Worldwide Photo from Harley-Davidson

    Grand American Touring

    Harley-Davidson’s Grand American Touring motorcycles are crafted to ensure that riders traverse long distances with unparalleled comfort, performance, and advanced technology that elevates the journey.

    The 2025 models in this series comprise the Harley-Davidson Street Glide, Road Glide, and Road King Special motorcycles.

    Trikes

    From the Harley-Davidson Trike collection, you can find the Road Glide, Freewheeler, and Tri Glide Ultra motorcycles.

    According to the American manufacturer, Harley-Davidson Trikes provide an attractive alternative for those who value the stability of a three-wheel design.

    Factory Custom Paint and Graphics

    The Wisconsin-based company has also introduced the Harley-Davidson Factory Custom Paint and Graphics program. This initiative enables customers to select premium paint-and-graphics options for specific motorcycle models.

    In 2025, three options from the Harley-Davidson Custom Paint and Graphics offerings will be available for customers:

    • Mystic Shift
    • Midnight Firestorm
    • Whiskey Firestorm

    Each of these paint options features a distinctive black tank medallion with chrome details and a mother-of-pearl textured background available in either purple or orange.

    According to Harley-Davidson, the finishes from their Custom Paint and Graphics program are applied to select components during the motorcycle assembly process. As a result, customers will receive a motorcycle with unique paint-and-graphics backed by a full factory warranty, without the hassle or expense of aftermarket customizations.

    Also read:

    Harley-Davidson unveils ‘portion’ of 2024 model lineup

    Harley-Davidson offers Apex custom paint for select Grand American Touring models

    Harley-Davidson launches Chapter of the Year contest in emerging Asia markets

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    From ‘IIT Baba’ to a Seer on a Harley Davidson: 5 Viral Highlights from the World’s Largest Gathering

    The Maha Kumbh Mela is often seen as the world’s largest spiritual assembly. This revered Hindu festival commenced on January 13 in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, drawing millions of devotees who engage in sacred ceremonies, the most prominent being the holy immersion at the Triveni Sangam – the junction of the three sacred rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati. This sacred bath is believed to cleanse the spirit, eliminate sins, and lead one towards spiritual freedom.

    As the Maha Kumbh 2025 unfolds, it brings not just a spiritual atmosphere but also a wave of viral moments that capture the excitement of the event. Here are five memorable incidents from the Kumbh Mela that have captivated the online world.

    Skydiver unveils the Maha Kumbh flag at 13,000 feet

    Anamika Sharma from Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, showcased the Mahakumbh flag at an altitude of 13,000 feet over Bangkok. An Instagram video captures Ms. Sharma with the flag just before she boards an aircraft, followed by her leap from the plane while unfurling the flag in mid-air, symbolically inviting everyone to the Mahakumbh 2025.

    ‘IIT Baba’ at the Maha Kumbh

    A prominent figure among the multitude of saints, sages, and spiritual leaders present at the Maha Kumbh is a former aerospace engineer from IIT Bombay, affectionately dubbed ‘IIT Baba.’ Abhey Singh, hailing from Haryana, transitioned from a career in science to a spiritual life, professing devotion to Lord Shiva. His articulate English communication has sparked considerable intrigue during his time at the Kumbh.

    From ‘IIT Baba’ to a Seer on a Harley Davidson: 5 Viral Highlights from the World’s Largest Gathering

    Laurene Powell Jobs at the Maha Kumbh

    Laurene Powell Jobs, widow of the late Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, is presently in India for the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025. Under the guidance of her guru, Swami Kailashanand Giri, she has adopted the Hindu name “Kamala.” She engages in spiritual practices including meditation, Kriya Yoga, and Pranayama, reflecting her deep appreciation for Indian spiritual traditions.

    Image: ANI

    Image: ANI

    Seer arrives at the Maha Kumbh on a Harley Davidson

    As millions flock to Prayagraj for a sacred dip in the Ganga river, one seer made a striking entrance on a motorcycle, riding into the tent city on a Harley Davidson. This surprising arrival has left social media users astonished.

    Latest and Breaking News on NDTV

    Chai Wale Baba, offering free IAS coaching at the Maha Kumbh

    “Chai Wale Baba,” a monk and former tea vendor, has devoted the past 40 years to offering complimentary coaching for civil service aspirants. Known as Dinesh Swaroop Brahmachari, he maintains a vow of silence and survives on a mere ten cups of tea daily, communicating with students through gestures and WhatsApp messages.

    Latest and Breaking News on NDTV

    The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 is scheduled from January 13 to February 26 in Prayagraj. This festival not only celebrates India’s rich spiritual legacy but also embodies the perennial human search for inner peace, self-discovery, and collective harmony.



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    Blade Motorcycles: Sudden Closure of Swindon’s Location

    Blade Motorcycles has officially shut down their ‘motorcycle village’ located on Elgin Drive, attributing the sudden closure to “persistent financial difficulties.”

    The announcement was made via social media on the Blade Yamaha Swindon page.

    The message stated: “We regret to inform you that Blade Motorcycles Swindon is now closed. This decision was not taken lightly; although our passion for motorcycles and commitment to serving you remains strong, the ongoing financial issues with the Swindon site have rendered it impractical to continue operations.

    “We recognize that this news may come as a surprise, and we sincerely appreciate your understanding.

    “To continue providing you with outstanding service for your motorcycle, we will be streamlining our operations across nearby locations:

    “Ducati: Abingdon

    “Harley-Davidson

    “Honda: Abingdon and Stratford-upon-Avon

    “Triumph: Cheltenham and Stratford-upon-Avon

    “Please visit our website to find the nearest Blade Motorcycles location to you.

    “Thank you for being a part of the Blade Motorcycles community. We are excited to continue supporting you at our other locations!”

    The company, owned by the Heritage Automotive Group, was founded in 1995 and represents eight motorcycle brands including Ducati, Harley Davidson, Honda, KTM, LiveWire, Suzuki, Triumph, and Yamaha.

    Support reliable local news

    Sign up for a digital subscription today: https://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/subscribe/

    As a digital subscriber, you will receive:

    • Unlimited access to the Swindon Advertiser website
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    ‘Leaked’ Harley-Davidson Plans Unveil 7 New Bikes, Including a Special Anniversary Model

    HARLEY-DAVIDSON is set to introduce a lineup of fresh and updated motorcycles for 2025 in just a few days.

    Among the anticipated new models is a special edition celebrating the 35th anniversary of the legendary Fat Boy, renowned as the favored ride of Arnold Schwarzenegger in Terminator 2: Judgment Day.

    ‘Leaked’ Harley-Davidson Plans Unveil 7 New Bikes, Including a Special Anniversary Model

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    A Harley-Davidson sign indicating a dealershipCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    Red Harley-Davidson gas tank.

    2

    A Harley-Davidson motorcycle fuel tankCredit: Harley Davidson

    The forthcoming announcement marks the first series of new motorcycles to be revealed by Harley-Davidson this year.

    The lineup will include seven revamped Softail models, featuring a more robust engine for Harley’s Low Rider S and Low Rider ST, as reported by Motorcycle.com.

    Besides enhanced engines, the new Low Rider S and ST are expected to be lighter than their predecessors.

    A complete revelation of the company’s new and refreshed models for 2025 is anticipated on January 23.

    READ MORE ON HARLEY-DAVIDSON

    However, Motorcycle.com disclosed that the company’s filings in Australia included a listing of seven vehicle identification codes.

    Three confirmed models were concealed with placeholder images labeled “CONFIDENTIAL until Embargo date,” suggesting they are undergoing mechanical upgrades.

    These included the Low Rider S, Low Rider ST, and Breakout.

    The remaining four identification codes were not labeled.

    They encompass FLHC (Heritage Classic), FXBB (Street Bob), and FLFB (Fat Boy), devoid of the “S” designation indicating them as Special models.

    The absence of an “S” suggests that the new 114 engine will succeed the 107 as the standard.

    New Harley-Davidson models anticipated to arrive in 2026 – and they are anything but typical motorcycles

    The fourth code, FLSTFI, was the original 1990 model code for the Fat Boy, further hinting that the 2025 model will be a special 35th-anniversary edition.

    A teaser image released on Harley-Davidson’s website displayed a Low Rider air intake marked Milwaukee-Eight 117 High Output.

    This indicates that the Low Rider’s new engine may deliver 114 horsepower at 5,020 revolutions per minute, compared to the previous year’s engine which peaked at 103 horsepower at 5,020 revolutions per minute.

    The 2025 Breakout is also expected to feature Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine tuning.

    Motorcycle equipment tips

    BEFORE mounting a motorbike and hitting the road, riders should be aware of what equipment is necessary for safety.

    It’s advisable for riders to protect themselves as thoroughly as possible before speeding down the highway among other vehicles.

    This means that all riders should definitely have a high-quality motorcycle helmet that fits well.

    It’s equally important to cover as much skin as feasible, so wearing pants and a riding jacket is crucial.

    Safety-conscious riders can take the additional step of always having riding gloves handy and wearing boots while riding.

    Cycle World summarizes it best, “When you’re deciding how to spend your money on gear, just ask yourself this question: What is that body part worth? Then spend accordingly.”

    CARRY-OVER MODELS REVEALED

    The leaked information comes right after Harley-Davidson disclosed its carry-over models on January 2.

    These are the models returning with new color schemes and adjusted price points for 2025.

    A representative for Harley-Davidson confirmed to The U.S. Sun that more 2025 motorcycles will be unveiled on H-D.com at 5 pm CST on January 23.

    In the meantime, a brand new Harley-Davidson dealership is expected to open in a matter of days.

    Nonetheless, the company has faced numerous closures in the past year.

    Furthermore, other dealerships, such as a long-standing family-owned dealership, have been sold.

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    An IIT Graduate, a Harley-Davidson Enthusiast, and Beyond – Firstpost

    The Kumbh Mela, renowned as the world’s largest spiritual congregation, has officially commenced in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, attracting devotees from various walks of life keen to partake in this monumental event.

    Beyond being a religious observance, it presents a vibrant showcase of the eclectic and intriguing figures who gather here. Among them, several Babas (sages or ascetics) are notable for their unconventional lifestyles and remarkable stories.

    From a sadhu arriving on a Harley Davidson to a former IIT graduate embracing asceticism, the Maha Kumbh Mela is a fascinating mix of extraordinary individuals. Let’s delve deeper into some of the most remarkable Babas at this year’s gathering.

    Chai-wale Baba

    Known as “Chai Wale Baba,” Dinesh Swaroop Brahmachari, once a tea vendor from Pratapgarh, Uttar Pradesh, has spent over four decades providing free coaching to civil services aspirants. Impressively, he conducts his classes without uttering a single word and sustains himself solely on tea.

    This Baba maintains a vow of silence and relies on ten cups of tea each day, believing that the milk in the tea supplies all necessary nutrients, as reported by ABP News.

    An IIT Graduate, a Harley-Davidson Enthusiast, and Beyond – Firstpost
    Known as “Chai Wale Baba,” Dinesh Swaroop Brahmachari, a former tea seller, has dedicated over 40 years to offering free coaching to civil services aspirants while maintaining silence and only consuming tea. ANI

    The Baba adeptly communicates with his students through non-verbal cues, gestures, and WhatsApp messages.

    Rajesh Singh, one of Baba’s pupils, shared how he aided him in preparing for the UPSC exams. “We can message him anytime, and he replies with written notes or gestures. His silence allows him to conserve energy for guiding us,” Singh told India TV.

    Once a US Army soldier, now Baba Mokshapuri

    Baba Mokshapuri, formerly known as Michael, a US Army veteran, found spirituality on his first trip to India with his family.

    During this visit, he was introduced to meditation and yoga, which awakened a spiritual journey that he regards as a divine calling.

    “I am no different than anyone else. There was a time when I enjoyed spending time with my family and serving in the Army,” he revealed to News18.

    The pivotal moment in his life came following the heartbreaking loss of his son, which drove him toward meditation for peace.

    “I came to the realization that nothing lasts forever. I embarked on this endless quest for moksha,” explained the seer, who has closely aligned himself with the Juna Akhara, dedicating his life to the practice and advocacy of Sanatan Dharma.

    Some Babas are cruising in style

    At the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, some Babas have made memorable entrances with their unique modes of transportation.

    One such personality is Ambassador Baba, who has struck a chord among attendees after arriving in his saffron-coloured Ambassador car. A sage from Indore, Madhya Pradesh, he has participated in four Kumbh Melas, traveling in his iconic 1972 Ambassador for nearly three to four decades.

    Bavandar Baba. ANI

    Another seer, known as ‘Splendor’ Baba, journeyed for 14 days from Gujarat on a three-wheeler motorcycle, covering an impressive distance of one lakh kilometres, as reported by ANI.

    He was also seen riding into the tent city of the Maha Kumbh on a Harley Davidson.

    IITian Baba

    Abhay Singh, known as IITian Baba, has captured the attention of both devotees and social media on the inaugural day of Maha Kumbh.

    A former student of IIT Bombay with expertise in aerospace engineering, Singh left behind a promising scientific career to pursue a spiritual path.

    “I sought the meaning of life. Even while studying engineering, I enrolled in philosophy courses—Post Modernism, Socrates, Plato—to grasp life’s essence,” he told News18.

    “This path has led me to what I consider true knowledge. To understand the mind or mental health, one can pursue it through spirituality.” On how he achieved this stage, Singh remarked, “This is the best stage of my life.”

    Rabri Baba

    Every morning at the Maha Kumbh, Mahant Devgiri of Shri Panchayati Akhada Mahanirvani begins his day by cooking a large kadhai (pot) of milk to prepare creamy sweet Rabri, which he serves to devotees from 8:00 am until late into the night.

    Each morning at the Maha Kumbh, Mahant Devgiri prepares a large kadhai of milk for Rabri, served continuously to devotees throughout the day. ANI

    This special offering has won the hearts of many attendees. He shared with ANI, “The kadhai is prepared at 8:00 am, but prior to that, I complete my daily rituals, which include bathing, meditation, and prayers. My morning worship stems from a connection with the Supreme Being.”

    Environment Baba

    Environment Baba, also referred to as Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Aruna Giri, captured attention upon his arrival at the Maha Kumbh Mela.

    In August 2016, he distributed 27 lakh plants from Vaishno Devi to Kanyakumari and has since encouraged his followers to plant two trees—one for final rites and a Peepal tree for oxygen supply.

    “I have conducted 82 rituals so far. Devotees from around 30 countries have pledged to plant over 1 crore trees in our nation. In 2016, during a march from Vaishno Devi to Kanyakumari, we planted trees across 27 states. That’s how devotees started calling me Environment Baba,” he disclosed to ANI.

    With contributions from various agencies

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    $90K Worth of Vehicles Seized in Property Search

    K Worth of Vehicles Seized in Property Search

    Law enforcement officials confiscated two Harley Davidson motorcycles from the location.
    Photo: Supplied / NZ police

    On January 9, Taranaki police conducted a search warrant in Fitzroy resulting in the seizure of cash, drugs, and vehicles.

    Approximately $5,000 in cash was confiscated along with 100 ounces of cannabis, according to Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Paula Drewery.

    Additionally, officers seized three vehicles, which included a Holden Colorado pickup and two Harley Davidson motorcycles.

    The total estimated value of the vehicles is close to $90,000.

    A 35-year-old individual was arrested at the Fitzroy residence and is scheduled to appear in the New Plymouth District Court on Wednesday.

    He faces charges related to the possession of cannabis with intent to supply, as stated by Drewery.

    Cannabis recovered during the operation in Fitzroy, Taranaki

    The cannabis that was retrieved by the police.
    Photo: Supplied / NZ police

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    Cash, Cannabis, and Vehicles Confiscated After Taranaki Warrant Execution

    Cash, Cannabis, and Vehicles Confiscated After Taranaki Warrant Execution
    Seized Cash (Photo/Supplied)
    Seized Motorcycle (Photo/Supplied)
    Seized Cannabis (Photo/Supplied)

    On 9 January, Taranaki Police executed a search warrant in Fitzroy, resulting in the seizure of cash, drugs, and several vehicles.

    Roughly $5,000 in cash was confiscated, alongside approximately 100 ounces of cannabis.

    Additionally, three vehicles were taken from the premises: a Holden Colorado ute and two Harley Davidson motorcycles, with a total value nearing $90,000.

    A 35-year-old man has been arrested at the Fitzroy location and is scheduled to appear in New Plymouth District Court on 15 January, facing charges of possession with intent to supply cannabis.

    Drugs inflict significant harm within our communities, and I would like to recognize the dedicated team of Police personnel involved in gathering crucial information and evidence that led to this arrest.

    We are steadfast in our commitment to hold offenders accountable by bringing them to court and confiscating assets obtained through criminal activities.

    – Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Paula Drewery

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    Panhead, Knucklehead, and Shovelhead: A Comparison of Harley-Davidson Engines

    In discussions of classic American culture, Harley-Davidson stands out as an iconic motorcycle brand that has dominated the roads for over a century. Throughout its history, the company has influenced motorcycle trends significantly, introducing comfortable cruisers like the Softail and nurturing motorcycle clubs like the Hell’s Angels. Perhaps more fascinating are its renowned engine designs, including the Panhead, Knucklehead, and Shovelhead. While all share the illustrious Harley name, they each possess unique designs and characteristics, including varied valve cover styles and horsepower ratings.

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    Harley-Davidson’s journey began in 1903 with the Model 1, which featured a 24.74 cubic-inch inlet-over-exhaust single-cylinder engine. The lineup continued to evolve with the introduction of the Panhead, Knucklehead, and Shovelhead engines, each representing significant advancements before eventually being phased out. Notably, the engines successively followed each other: the Knucklehead was the first, followed by the Panhead, and then the Shovelhead. Let’s delve into their unique contributions, how they compare, and the reasons for their retirement.

    The Knucklehead was Harley-Davidson’s first overhead-valve V-twin engine

    After 33 years, Harley-Davidson introduced its first overhead-valve V-twin engine, named the Knucklehead, a nod to its uniquely designed rocker covers resembling knuckles. Before the Knucklehead, the company produced side-valve engines (Flatheads), which, while cheaper to manufacture and maintain, fell short of the power levels boasted by contemporary European bikes. Launched in 1931, the 60.3 cubic inch pushrod-based OHV engine featured a 4-speed constant-mesh transmission and a recirculating oil system.

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    Various models of the Knucklehead were released over the years, each showcasing distinct horsepower ratings and engine dimensions. For instance, the 1936 E-model Knucklehead managed 37 horsepower but faced challenges with valve springs that broke easily and significant oil leakage problems. These deficiencies prompted Harley to consider improvements for future iterations. Over the years, the company worked diligently to refine the Knucklehead, addressing its issues, yet ultimately, the successor was already in the works.

    The Panhead is shaped like a pan

    Following the Knucklehead, Harley-Davidson’s next innovation came from necessity as the post-WW2 landscape demanded motorcycles to cater to an evolving America, which was rapidly improving its road infrastructure. In 1947, the company unveiled the Panhead, designed to manage overheating better by utilizing aluminum in its cylinder heads instead of traditional cast iron. This material choice allowed for greater heat dissipation during high-powered operations. The Panhead featured a revamped oil pump alongside its valves fixed in hard seat rings. Its polished one-piece valve covers earned the engine its “Panhead” moniker.

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    Similar to the Knucklehead, power and specifications of the Panhead varied across different models. Earlier iterations ranged from 50 to 55 horsepower, while later versions in the 1960s, which underwent notable updates, reached 60 horsepower. However, despite innovations, the Panhead experienced challenges, particularly concerning the aluminum cylinder heads which expanded more rapidly than their cast-iron counterparts, leading to valve lash and subsequently hampered performance. Although Harley implemented solutions like hydraulic lifters, it was not long before they turned their focus to another significant engine model.

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    The Shovelhead was a revival of the big twin engine

    Unveiled in 1966, the Shovelhead emerged as an OHV big twin engine, designed to power motorcycles that matched the increasing demand for more robust bikes. Its distinct shape of rocker covers inspired the name “Shovelhead.” Similar to the Panhead, the Shovelhead utilized aluminum cylinder heads, but with enhanced durability compared to earlier models. Harley produced two versions of the Shovelhead, one at 74 cubic inches and the other at 80 cubic inches, both known for their characteristic upturned shovel-like rocker boxes.

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    As with previous models, the horsepower varied with the Shovelhead. For instance, early iterations of the 80-cubic-inch model delivered 66 horsepower at 5,600 rpms. While the Shovelhead was aimed at boosting performance and reliability, it still faced challenges like overheating, akin to the Panhead, along with issues such as blown head gaskets and malfunctioning electronic ignition. Problems like these eventually led to the engine’s replacement by the Evolution engine.

    The Knucklehead, Panhead, and Shovelhead represent some of the most legendary engines to bear the Harley-Davidson name. Each engine featured its distinct flair, setting it apart not only from its siblings but also marking its individuality against contemporary options available in the market. These innovative engineering feats have significantly impacted the evolution of Harley-Davidson engines as we know them today.

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    Seer Arrives at Maha Kumbh on a Harley Davidson, Attendees Bring Vibrancy to the Grand Festival


    New Delhi:

    As the world’s largest religious gathering, Maha Kumbh 2025, commenced on Monday, millions flocked to Prayagraj to immerse themselves in the sacred Ganga river. Among the many attendees adding vibrancy to the event was a biker seer.

    Visuals captured the seer arriving at the Maha Kumbh tent city aboard a Harley Davidson motorcycle. Another seer, affectionately referred to as ‘Splendor’ Baba, completed a 14-day journey from Gujarat on a three-wheeler motorcycle, as reported by news agency ANI. Meanwhile, Chabhi Wale Baba made his rounds carrying a 20 kg key.

    Chhotu Baba, who hasn’t bathed in 32 years, traveled to the tent city from Assam’s Kamakhya Peeth. At 57 years old and standing at just three feet tall, he has become a focal point of interest at the Maha Kumbh Mela. “I am 3 feet 8 inches tall. I am 57 years old. I am thrilled to be here. This is a communal gathering, connecting soul to soul. Your presence brings me joy,” he stated. However, he expressed his decision to abstain from bathing in the Ganga, sharing, “I do not bathe because I have a wish that has remained unfulfilled for the past 32 years. I will not take a dip in the Ganga,” he told PTI.

    Seer Arrives at Maha Kumbh on a Harley Davidson, Attendees Bring Vibrancy to the Grand Festival

    “Chai Wale Baba,” a former tea vendor turned monk, has spent 40 years offering free coaching to students preparing for civil services. Known as Dinesh Swaroop Brahmachari, he has taken a vow of silence and sustains himself on ten cups of tea a day, assisting students through gestures and WhatsApp messages.

    Rabri Baba

    Rabri Baba

    One of the seers made his entrance to the Maha Kumbh in a 50-year-old Ambassador car, the sole earthly possession he has retained. Another seer has kept his hand raised for nine years, resulting in nails longer than his fingers. Arriving with a message of reforestation, Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Aruna Giri, also known as Environment Baba, joined the tent city.

    Environment Baba

    Environment Baba

    The pilgrim group also includes international tourists, absorbing the spiritual ambience at this monumental gathering. Michael, a former US Army soldier turned ascetic now known as ‘Baba Mokshapuri’, recounted his transformative journey. “I was an ordinary individual with a family and career. Upon realizing that nothing is permanent, I sought salvation,” he expressed. Associated with the Juna Akhara, Michael is devoted to promoting Sanatan Dharma.

    South Korean YouTubers documenting the festival and Japanese visitors eager to learn about the customs, alongside European pilgrims, were awestruck by the religious festivities. Shiku, a Brazilian yoga enthusiast attending the Maha Kumbh for the first time in search of ‘moksha’, remarked, “India is the spiritual heart of the world. This Maha Kumbh is especially significant as it occurs after 144 years. I feel incredibly fortunate to be here. Jai Shri Ram.” For French journalist Melanie, the Maha Kumbh embodies the essence of unexpected excitement.

    Michael is a former US Army soldier-turned-ascetic now known as Baba Mokshapuri.

    Michael is a former US Army soldier-turned-ascetic now known as ‘Baba Mokshapuri’.

    In an ingenious approach to avoid getting lost amidst the festival crowd, sisters Gita and Lalita from Jharkhand have tied their bangles together with a red ribbon. Within just a few hours of Monday, authorities successfully reunited around 250 individuals with their families.

    The Maha Kumbh commenced on Monday with the ‘Pavitra Snan’ on ‘Paush Purnima’ at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mystical Saraswati rivers. Over six weeks, from January 13 to February 26, devotees will engage in elaborate rituals, prayers, and religious processions, celebrating a rare celestial event that happens once every 144 years. Significant bathing dates include January 14 (Makar Sankranti – First Pavitra Snan), January 29 (Mauni Amavasya – Second Pavitra Snan), February 3 (Basant Panchami – Third Pavitra Snan), February 12 (Maghi Purnima), and February 26 (Maha Shivaratri).

    The Uttar Pradesh government anticipates a turnout of 40-45 crore attendees at the Maha Kumbh, mobilizing extensive resources to ensure a seamless execution of what is arguably the largest faith-based gathering globally.