Sadhvi Harsha Richhariya to oppose illegal conversion, Love Jihad:Says, ‘sunscreen needed while standing in harsh sunlight’

Social media influencer and ‘Mahakumbh’ viral figure Harsha Richhariya has formally embraced Sannyas and will now be known as Harshanand Giri. She was initiated at an Ashram in Ujjain by Mahamandaleshwar Sumananand Giri. Describing the period since the Mahakumbh as “extremely difficult,” she became emotional while speaking about her family and personal struggles. From glamour to spirituality Explaining her transition from a glamorous social media presence to a spiritual path, Harshanand Giri said the shift was not a conscious decision but a gradual transformation. “One does not choose the spiritual path; it comes naturally with divine grace. It brings immense peace,” she said. She cited financial losses and health issues as turning points in her life, adding that her inclination toward spirituality began around 2019, with multiple visits to Kedarnath playing a key role. On past persona and present identity Referring to an old social media post—“I am Queen, I know how to fly with broken wings”—she said: “I have proved myself right. I am still that ‘queen’ who is carving her own path, with Lord Shiva’s blessings.” Controversy and Public scrutiny Responding to controversies during the Mahakumbh, she said criticism and trolling were driven by perception rather than facts. “If you’re not in controversy, you are respected; if you are, you are judged entirely wrong. No one could prove any mistake on my part,” she said. Appearance after Sannyas draws attention Despite adopting saffron robes, Harshanand Giri continues to wear makeup and stylish glasses, which has drawn public attention. is She clarified that her glasses are medically necessary and that she only uses minimal products like sunscreen, lip balm, and kohl. “If someone asks me to stand in the sun without sunscreen, that’s not practical. I’m not imposing anything on anyone. I will follow my guru’s guidance,” she said. Plans to work against religious conversion Outlining her future plans, she said she intends to work on issues related to religious conversion and what she described as “love jihad.” She stressed the need to raise awareness and organize seminars to educate young women. Personal life: Strained family ties Speaking emotionally, she revealed that her decision has strained relationships with family and friends. “I have been alone since the Mahakumbh. My mother is unwell, and my brother is not speaking to me. It’s difficult for the family, but things will improve with time,” she said. Now a new controversy has started regarding this picture Initiation rituals and Traditions According to those associated with the ashram, initiation rituals follow the traditions of the Niranjani Akhara, part of the Dashanami Sannyasi lineage. While head-shaving is generally mandatory, in the case of women,modelling it depends on the guru’s discretion. Symbolically, Harshanand Giri also offered her hair as part of the ritual. ‘Like Ratnakar became Valmiki’: Guru Mahamandaleshwar Sumananand Giri said spiritual initiation marks a complete renunciation of one’s past life. “Just as Ratnakar became Valmiki, Harsha becoming Harshanand Giri is natural. Initiation means letting go of all past deeds and beginning a new spiritual journey,” he said.