The world’s largest religious congregation, Maha Kumbh 2025, commenced on Monday in Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj, marking the return of the event after 144 years.

Devotees in massive numbers thronged the ghats of the city for the first Shahi Snan on the auspicious occasion of Pauh Purnima.

Visuals from the sacred town showcased thousands of pilgrims assembling at the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythological Saraswati rivers, to take a holy dip believed to cleanse sins and lead to spiritual salvation (moksha). Government officials reported that by 8 am on Monday, over 40 lakh devotees had bathed at the confluence.

The 45-day-long spiritual extravaganza is expected to attract more than 45 crore pilgrims, including 15 lakh international visitors. This figure dwarfs the attendance at the last Kumbh in 2019, which saw 24 crore attendees.

PM Modi hails cultural confluence

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a post on X, lauded the Maha Kumbh as a representation of India’s rich spiritual heritage and cultural unity. “A very special day for crores of people who cherish Bharatiya values and culture! Maha Kumbh 2025 commences in Prayagraj, bringing together countless people in a sacred confluence of faith, devotion and culture,” he wrote. He also extended his wishes for a fulfilling experience for pilgrims and tourists.

Massive arrangements

Uttar Pradesh Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh, who reviewed the preparations, said the state government has allocated a budget of Rs 7,000 crore to ensure the success of the event. “In 2019, we had 24 crore pilgrims. This time, we anticipate more than 45 crore, including 15 lakh foreign visitors. The focus is on sanitation, security, and creating a ‘digital Kumbh,’” Singh said.

Advanced safety measures have been implemented, including the deployment of underwater drones, AI-enabled surveillance cameras, and remote life-saving buoys. The event also features extensive security arrangements with teams from the PAC, NDRF, and SDRF stationed on 700 flagged boats.

Cultural and technological fusion

The Maha Kumbh is witnessing an extraordinary blend of spirituality and technology. For the first time, cutting-edge gadgets, including underwater drones, are monitoring the safety of devotees around the clock.

The UP Police have ensured round-the-clock security and surveillance, emphasizing the seamless experience for pilgrims.

Adding to the spiritual fervor is a rich lineup of cultural activities. The Culture Ministry has organized performances by celebrated artists, including Kailash Kher, Shankar Mahadevan, Kavita Krishnamurthy, Mohit Chauhan, Hans Raj Hans, and Hariharan. A dedicated cultural hub, Kalagram, has been set up to highlight India’s artistic and cultural heritage.

Devotees from Across the Globe

Prayagraj has become a melting pot of cultures, with devotees arriving from across India and around the world to participate in this spiritual spectacle. The Maha Kumbh not only offers an opportunity for collective faith but also underscores the nation’s cultural unity, attracting attention on a global scale.

As the event unfolds, Prayagraj is expected to remain abuzz with the collective spirit of devotion and celebration, reaffirming the timeless heritage of the Kumbh.