Harsha Richhariya, a former influencer and professional host with close to a million Instagram followers, has become the center of online attention following her participation in the ongoing Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.
Known for her social media presence and vibrant hosting career, Richhariya’s spiritual transformation has intrigued many and sparked debates across platforms.
The 30-year-old, originally from Uttarakhand, has shared glimpses of her journey through photos and videos from the Mahakumbh. Her posts capture her engaging in rituals, visiting holy sites, and meeting prominent spiritual figures, creating a compelling narrative of devotion and self-discovery. However, critics have surfaced, pointing to her past life as a host and model, questioning the authenticity of her new identity as a Sadhvi, or female ascetic.
Richhariya has addressed these concerns, stating that she embraced spirituality two years ago, leaving behind her former lifestyle to dedicate herself fully to her faith. “I relinquished everything to embrace this path and identity,” she shared in an interview that has since gained widespread attention. She is a disciple of Acharya Mahamandaleshwar and describes herself as a “Hindu Sanatan Sherni” and social activist on Instagram under the handle @host_harsha.
At the Mahakumbh, Richhariya recently participated in a ceremony honoring spiritual leader Vyasanand Giri Maharaj. The event drew notable attendees, including Laurene Powell Jobs, the widow of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs.
The Mahakumbh Mela, recognized as one of the largest spiritual gatherings globally, occurs every 12 years at four rotating locations across India. This year’s edition in Prayagraj continues until February 26, 2025. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has praised the event, describing it as a “sacred confluence of faith, devotion, and culture” that unites millions in shared spirituality.
Richhariya’s story has brought an additional layer of intrigue to this year’s Mahakumbh. Whether hailed as a symbol of transformation or questioned for her past, she remains a talking point, drawing widespread attention to the grandeur and significance of the festival.