The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, which began on January 13, has drawn an overwhelming crowd of over 63 crore visitors over the past 45 days. As the world’s largest human gathering, the fair is set to conclude on February 26 with an influx of lakhs expected to take part in the last holy dip during Mahashivratri.
A Grand Journey of Devotion and Faith
Initially expected to attract around 40 crore devotees, the Maha Kumbh 2025 surpassed all expectations. On February 24, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath confirmed that more than 63 crore people had visited the fair, with over 1.3 crore pilgrims taking a dip in the holy Triveni Sangam on February 24 alone.
The fair’s closing on February 26 promises to be a spectacular event, as devotees rush to witness the final Amrit Snan. The Kumbh Mela, which has been held for centuries, continues to be an essential Hindu pilgrimage, attracting millions seeking spiritual enlightenment and blessings.
The Origins of the Kumbh Mela
The Kumbh Mela finds its roots in ancient Hindu scriptures, specifically the Rigveda, and is deeply connected to the mythological story of the Sagar Manthan, or the churning of the cosmic ocean. It is believed that drops of nectar, representing immortality, fell at four locations—Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain—which are the sites of the Kumbh Mela.
During this grand event, devotees from various Akharas (Hindu sects) participate in Shahi Snans, royal baths, in the sacred waters of the river confluences. The mesmerizing scenes of millions bathing in the holy rivers have made the Kumbh Mela a unique and awe-inspiring spiritual event.
Different Types of Kumbh Melas
There are four primary Kumbh Mela events that occur on different cycles. The Maha Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years, is the largest and most significant. This year’s Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj is particularly special, as it occurs after a gap of 144 years.
Other forms of the Kumbh Mela include:
- Ardh Kumbh Mela: Held every six years.
- Purna Kumbh Mela: Occurs once every 12 years at one of the four locations.
The Last Day Preparations: A Secure and Smooth Conclusion
The last day of the Maha Kumbh Mela always attracts a large number of visitors. Security and logistical arrangements have been tightened for the final day, ensuring safety and ease for devotees. In anticipation of the crowd, Indian Railways has organized more than 350 additional trains to manage the return of pilgrims.
Police presence is also increased across all major spots in Prayagraj, including Shivalayas, to control the crowd. The authorities have created a no-vehicle zone to avoid congestion. Traffic will follow a zonal system to maintain order and facilitate the movement of people.
Celebrities at the Maha Kumbh
Prominent figures, including President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, visited the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025. Several Bollywood celebrities such as Katrina Kaif and Akshay Kumar also participated in the grand event, immersing themselves in the sacred waters at the Sangam.
Mishaps and Challenges During the Mela
Though the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 was mostly a peaceful event, it did witness a few unfortunate incidents. On January 29, a tragic stampede occurred, leading to the deaths of at least 30 people and injuring 60 others. The stampede occurred at the Sangam area during Mauni Amavasya, one of the most auspicious days of the fair, when millions gathered for the holy dip.
Additionally, there were several fire incidents and road accidents involving pilgrims traveling to and from the fair. However, despite these challenges, the fair proceeded with minimal disruptions, thanks to the efforts of local authorities.
The Spirit of the Maha Kumbh
The Maha Kumbh Mela remains one of the largest and most revered gatherings in the world. Pilgrims from all walks of life join in a shared spiritual experience. The event brings people together in devotion, seeking purification, blessings, and spiritual awakening.
The fair’s final day promises to be an emotional conclusion to a historic event, as pilgrims participate in the last Amrit Snan of the 2025 Kumbh. For many, this moment marks the culmination of a lifelong spiritual journey.
