Prayagraj, 10 January 2025: The Maha Kumbh Mela, the world’s largest religious congregation, is set to commence in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, from January 13 to February 26, 2025.
With an anticipated turnout of over 40 crore devotees, this historic event combines faith, spirituality, and modernity, showcasing India’s rich cultural heritage on a global scale.
The Maha Kumbh will kick off with a spectacular drone show on January 13, depicting mythological events like the Samudra Manthan and emergence of the Amrit Kalash.
Another drone display will mark the event’s conclusion on February 26. Enhanced security and logistical arrangements are in place to manage the massive influx of pilgrims.
Authorities have deployed 2,300 CCTV cameras for crowd control and monitoring, while Indian Railways is running 13,000 special and regular trains to improve connectivity. Nearly 1.45 lakh restrooms and 99 parking spaces spread over 1,850 hectares have been arranged to accommodate the needs of the attendees.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath highlighted the Maha Kumbh’s economic impact, projecting ₹2 lakh crore in growth, compared to ₹1.2 lakh crore in 2019. “This gathering showcases India’s spiritual and cultural richness, blending ancient traditions with modern infrastructure,” said Adityanath at the “Divine Uttar Pradesh” conclave.
The Maha Kumbh, held every 12 years in Prayagraj, is rooted in Hindu mythology and astrology. It commemorates the mythical battle between gods and demons during the Samudra Manthan for the nectar of immortality (Amrit). Drops of Amrit are believed to have fallen at Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain, marking these sites as sacred.
The Kumbh Mela follows a 12-year cycle, with Ardh Kumbh celebrated every six years in Prayagraj and Haridwar. Dates are determined based on the alignment of the sun, moon, and Jupiter in the Hindu calendar, symbolizing a harmonious balance between time, space, and spirituality.
Shahi Snans (royal baths), central to the Kumbh, are scheduled on auspicious dates:
January 13: Paush Purnima
January 14: Makar Sankranti (First Shahi Snan)
January 29: Mauni Amavasya (Second Shahi Snan)
February 3: Basant Panchami (Third Shahi Snan)
February 12: Maghi Purnima
February 26: Maha Shivratri
Bathing at the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers, is believed to cleanse sins and ensure salvation.
Authorities advise pilgrims to prepare for cold weather by carrying winter essentials like gloves, scarves, and umbrellas. Visitors are also encouraged to keep identification documents handy and plan accommodations early to avoid inconvenience during the busy festival.
CM Adityanath underscored the digital and environmental advancements incorporated into this year’s event. “We’ve worked tirelessly to ensure a sustainable and technologically advanced Maha Kumbh, where spirituality and modernity merge seamlessly,” he remarked.
He also criticized those dismissing India’s spiritual heritage. “These individuals thrive on division, ignoring the grandeur of events like the Maha Kumbh, which celebrate India’s ancient cultural roots.”
The Chief Minister highlighted measures taken to maintain ecological balance, including preventing sewage flow into the rivers. “The people of Uttar Pradesh are privileged to host this profound spiritual gathering, putting India’s heritage on the global stage,” he concluded.
The Maha Kumbh Mela is not just a religious event but a celebration of social unity and spiritual reflection, fostering harmony and showcasing India’s profound traditions. For Hindus, it is a moment of immense faith, representing divine connection, purity, and collective reverence.
