News Brief
Arjun Brij
Feb 12, 2025, 05:36 PM | Updated 05:36 PM IST
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The Maha Kumbh 2025 has etched its name in history, drawing an unprecedented 450 million (45 crore) devotees to the sacred bathing rituals at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj.
Surpassing expectations, this milestone was achieved within a month, well ahead of the projected 45 days, with 15 days still remaining for the grand religious event to conclude.
Over 73 lakh people took holy dip today (12 February) till 6 am on the occasion of Magh Purnima, news agency PTI reported.
The mela area was designated a ‘no vehicle zone’ from 11 February, ensuring the safety and smooth movement of pilgrims.
Indian Railways has been operating at full capacity, transporting 12.5 lakh devotees in 330 trains on 9 February, with an additional 130 trains dispatched by 3 pm on 10 February.
The administration, in collaboration with various agencies, had deployed AI-powered CCTV cameras, drone surveillance, and real-time analytics to monitor the crowd.
A digital token system has been introduced for streamlined access to bathing ghats, easing congestion.
Special provisions have been made for elderly and differently-abled devotees.
The Maha Kumbh has seen the participation of President Droupadi Murmu, who took a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam on 10 February and several dignitaries, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
The tradition of Kalpavas, a period of ascetic discipline, has been observed by 10 lakh devotees, culminating on Magh Purnima with a final holy dip, pujan, and daan.
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Arjun Brij is an Editorial Associate at Swarajya. He tweets at @arjun_brij