Prayagraj, Feb. 6 -- As the final Amrit Snan draws to a close, the vast expanse of the Kumbh Mela, which for weeks had been a city of saints, devotees, and seekers, now echoes with chants of farewell. The air is thick with the fragrance of burning incense and the rhythmic beats of damrus as akhadas prepare for their departure-some heading to Kashi, others to their ashrams scattered across the country.

But before the saints part ways, a centuries-old tradition unfolds-a farewell feast of "Kadhi-Pakoda". The massive tents that had once echoed with spiritual discourses and hymns are now filled with the sound of laughter, as ascetics, who renounce worldly pleasures, sit together for one last meal, relishing the simple yet sacred offering.

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