News Brief
Maha Kumbh 2025
Prayagraj is bracing for an extraordinary influx of pilgrims as the ‘Amrit Snan’ on Mauni Amavasya, set for Wednesday (29 January), is expected to draw a staggering 10 crore devotees to the Maha Kumbh, reported The Hindu.
The Uttar Pradesh government has already reported over 15 crore pilgrims taking a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam—the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the Saraswati—over the past 17 days.
With millions set to arrive, security arrangements are unprecedented. The Mela area has been declared a no-vehicle zone, and AI-powered CCTV cameras and drones are monitoring the sprawling festival grounds.
"Residents are requested to use two-wheelers or walk to facilitate the movement of pilgrims from across the globe," Prayagraj District Magistrate Ravindra Kumar Mandar urged locals, highlighting the massive scale of the event.
The significance of the Maha Kumbh was evident earlier this month on Makar Sankranti (14 January), when 3.5 crore devotees, including saints and Kalpwasis, participated in the sacred ‘Amrit Snan.’
As of 8 am on Tuesday, 45 lakh pilgrims had already taken the holy dip, demonstrating the unyielding faith that drives people from every corner of the globe to Prayagraj.
The convergence of faith, tradition, and modern technology at Maha Kumbh 2025 exemplifies India’s ability to honour its cultural heritage while adapting to contemporary challenges.