The much-awaited Maha Kumbh 2025 kicked off in Prayagraj on Monday with millions of devotees participating in the sacred ‘Amrit Snan’ at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers. This auspicious event, marking Paush Purnima in the Hindu calendar, signals the start of the 45-day festival, which is expected to draw a staggering 45 crore people, showcasing India’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a heartfelt message on social media, greeted the nation on the occasion, calling it “a very special day for crores of people who cherish Bharatiya values and culture.” He went on to describe the Maha Kumbh as an embodiment of India’s timeless spiritual heritage that celebrates faith, devotion, and harmony. He also expressed happiness over the lively atmosphere in Prayagraj, where countless people gathered for the holy dip, strengthening the sense of unity and devotion.
As the festival began, devotees from all corners of India, and even abroad, gathered at the sacred Triveni Sangam for the ‘Shahi Snan,’ performing the time-honored ritual that is believed to cleanse sins and bring spiritual merit. Many pilgrims, having traveled long distances, expressed deep gratitude for the extensive arrangements made by the state government and Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, making the event seamless and memorable.
Foreign tourists also flocked to Prayagraj, captivated by the grand scale and spiritual energy of the festival. Several foreign visitors, including Claudia from Poland and Jelica from Australia, expressed their awe and joy at being part of this once-in-a-lifetime experience, with many of them partaking in the holy dip in the Sangam.
The Maha Kumbh is not only a spiritual gathering but also a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage, with devotional activities such as aarti and rituals conducted throughout the day. The festival will continue until February 26, offering a platform for millions to unite in their faith and devotion.
To ensure the safety and smooth management of this massive congregation, the Uttar Pradesh government has deployed robust security measures. In a first, underwater drones capable of diving up to 100 meters have been positioned for surveillance, while tethered drones provide aerial views to monitor crowds and identify areas in need of medical or security intervention. More than 2,700 cameras equipped with AI-based facial recognition technology are also in place to enhance real-time monitoring, and a team of 56 cyber warriors is working to address any online threats.
Additionally, extensive security protocols have been put in place, including multiple checkpoints, dedicated teams to monitor suspicious activities, and a well-coordinated effort between local authorities and security forces. The city’s infrastructure has been ramped up, with over 1.5 lakh tents, sanitation facilities, and electricity connections installed to accommodate the surge of devotees.
Authorities have set up temporary healthcare facilities to cater to the medical needs of the devotees, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience for all.
(With IANS inputs)