Varanasi, Feb. 26 -- Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Swami Avdheshanand Giri Maharaj of Juna Akhara on Wednesday said that nearly half of the country's population participated in the Maha Kumbh, showcasing India's civilisation and culture to the world.

"Nearly half of India's population arrived at Kumbh. People across castes, religious beliefs and opinions came here together. The world saw our unity," Giri Maharaj told reporters after offering prayers at Kashi Vishwanath Temple on the occasion of Maha Shivratri.

He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for the "grand" arrangements for the Maha Kumbh.

"The world saw a glimpse of our civilisation and culture... Half of India's population prayed fo...