Screengrab of video showing Thyrocare CEO at Rishikesh
Credit: X/@velumania
Thyrocare CEO Dr A Velumani shared images of his peaceful visit to the Kumbh Mela in Rishikesh, and drew a contrast with the large crowds and much fanfare at other locations, which comes with safety concerns as well.
His post on X has gone viral, resonating with those looking for a calmer pilgrimage experience.
Velumani, in an X post, highlighted how Rishikesh was serene, saying "Same Ganges. Cleaner Ganges. Beautiful Ganges. No fear of stampede. Flight and Hotel cheaper. First time to Uttarakhand. My frugal, safe and peaceful #Kumbh at #Rishikesh. #HarHarMahadev.”
The CEO also mentioned that his visit coincided with a talk at IIT Roorkee.
This comes days after the tragic stampede at the Sangam nose in Prayagraj, which left at least 30 dead -- going by the UP government numbers, though chief opposition leader in the state Akhilesh Yadav has cast doubts on the official death toll.
Following the tragedy, authorities have implemented a slew of measures, including no cars, and VVIP passes getting scrapped. Millions are again expected to attend the Basant Panchami 'Amrit Snan' on February 3.
Some have alleged that proper arrangements were not made at Prayagraj, which led to the travesty.
For his part, Velumani has been in the news for walking off the beaten path -- when as a CEO, he took a ride-hailing cab from a five-star hotel after dinner. While some praised his choice, others criticised it.
However, he defended his action in another X post, saying he would always bat for frugality, and said even his parents were frugal. Velumani ended his post advocating for peace and staying frugal.