“Scooter-Riding Sister, Motorcycle-Riding Sir…”: The Voice That Has Echoed at Prayagraj’s Sangam Nose for 25 Years

For the past 25 years, a familiar, gentle and melodious voice has been echoing across the Sangam Nose in Prayagraj, instantly drawing the attention of devotees.
“Motorcycle-riding sir, scooter-riding sister, sister in the yellow sari — please do not take your vehicles towards the ghats.”

This soothing announcement, reminiscent of All India Radio, has become an inseparable part of the Sangam experience. Yet, for years, visitors have remained curious about the person behind the voice that guides and safeguards millions of pilgrims.

The voice belongs to Harishchandra, who stands outside the watchtower police control room at Sangam Nose and has been performing this duty with remarkable dedication since 2001.

A Lifelong Duty at the Sangam

Harishchandra was first deployed at Sangam Nose in 2001 and has since served continuously during every Magh Mela, as well as during Ardh Kumbh and Mahakumbh events. From his post, he keeps a watchful eye on lakhs of devotees, alerting them against unsafe or undesirable activities and ensuring that vehicles are not taken close to the riverbanks.

A member of the Home Guards, working in coordination with the police department, Harishchandra hails from Tikri village in Uruwa block, near Manda Road.

Chosen for His Voice

Before taking up this role, Harishchandra was associated with a Ramayani troupe. His clear and pleasant voice caught the attention of senior officials, who entrusted him with the responsibility of making public announcements — a role he has fulfilled with sincerity for over two decades.

Though he is due to retire in the next two years, Harishchandra says he has been assured by officials that even after retirement, he will be allowed to continue serving at Sangam Nose in the spirit of public service.

“The Devotees Are My Family”

Harishchandra says he wishes to complete his life’s work in this sacred land and spend the rest of his years here. He lives with his wife, and his daughter Nirmala, who is married.
“For me, the devotees are my extended family. I receive immense affection from the officers and from the people who come here,” he says.

While most visitors follow his announcements with respect, he admits that at times some misguided individuals attempt to ignore the rules. “In such cases, my tone changes slightly,” he says with a smile, “and I have to stop them by citing official orders.”

At the Sangam Nose, where faith, crowds and chaos converge, Harishchandra’s voice continues to act as a calm guide — a constant presence that has quietly served millions for a quarter of a century.