New Delhi:

Mahakumbh — the massive ongoing religious event at Prayagraj, the erstwhile Allahabad — is not meant for any single caste or religion, it is the great melting pot of all religion, culture and creed, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said today, adding in this context that “Sanatan Dharma” is the “national religion”.

“I used the same words earlier also,” he told NDTV’s Editor-in-Chief Sanjay Pugalia in an exclusive interview that was part of the channel’s Maha Kumbh Samvaad. 

“Sanatan Dharma is the national religion of India. It is the religion of humanity. The process of worship can be different. But religion is one and that religion is Sanatan Dharma. Kumbh is the representative of that Sanatan Dharma,” added the saffron-robed Chief Minister, who also heads a key shrine of the state.

Calling the four-year event a “Maha Parv”, he said, “You must have seen on January 14, Makar Sankranti, nearly six crore devotees took a dip at the Sangam”.

Sangam is the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna and once, the Saraswati, at Prayagraj, considered one of the holiest spots in the country. 

“This message of unity was given by Maha Kumbh. There was no discrimination. People who used to criticise Sanatan Dharma, we say come see this. Do not be Dhritarashtra, come see it yourself,” he added. 

Uttar Pradesh is hosting the largest religious gathering on the world, which started on January 13 and will continue till February 26. The ongoing Maha Kumbh has crossed the 10-crore milestone for pilgrims taking a dip at the Triveni Sangam.

The Mahakumbh-2025 in Prayagraj has seen an unprecedented influx of devotees, with a massive 10.80 crore plus taking the sacred plunge at the revered Ganga-Yamuna-Saraswati confluence, as of Friday. 

Despite cold conditions, a large congregation of devotees gathered at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj to take a dip in the ongoing Mahakumbh. Apart from this, authorities are focusing on preparations for the upcoming Mauni Amavasya on January 29, anticipating large crowds of devotees.

Visitors from around the world are often left in awe as they witness people from different languages, lifestyles, and traditions coming together at the Sangam for a holy dip. The Kumbh Mela, with its massive crowds, lively ghats, and countless activities, can feel overwhelming for first-time visitors. But with the right preparations, you can enjoy this grand event smoothly. 

Here’s a handy checklist of essentials, divided into travel items, hygiene products, and tech gear.  

 Travel Essentials  

1. Crossbody Bag: A secure, hands-free crossbody bag is perfect for keeping your cash, ID, and phone within easy reach.  
2. Waterproof Footwear: Essential for navigating crowded ghats and riverbanks. Opt for comfortable and durable options.  
3. Water Bottle: Carry a reusable, insulated water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.  
4. Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Pack light, breathable fabrics for the daytime heat, and include a shawl or jacket for cooler mornings and evenings.  

 Tech Gear  

1. Apple AirTag: Attach this to your luggage to easily track it in case it gets misplaced.  
2. Portable Charger: Ensure your devices stay charged all day with a reliable power bank.  
3. Smartwatch: Use a smartwatch to track your steps and stay connected-it’s a great companion for the long walks at the Mela.  

 Hygiene Necessities  

1. First Aid Kit: Include basic items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, painkillers, and any prescribed medications. Even though there are many health centers in the Maha Kumbh area, having a compact kit is always helpful.  
2. Sunscreen and Lip Balm: Protect your skin and lips from the harsh sun during the day.  

With these essentials in your bag, you’ll be well-prepared to experience the spiritual and cultural vibrance of the Kumbh Mela without a hitch.

Meanwhile, several devotees from Russia and Ukraine two countries embroiled in deadly conflict for close to three years attended the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj and presented a message of spiritual unity. The atmosphere in Prayagraj turned sublime, as devotees in the cold winter evening gathered to perform kirtan, and sang ‘Hare Rama Hare Krishna’.

The Maha Kumbh is held after every 12 years and a huge turnout of devotees is expected in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26.

According to tradition, pilgrims flock to the Sangam–the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati (now extinct) rivers–to take the holy dip believed to absolve sins and grant moksha (liberation).

Rooted in Sanatan Dharma, the event signifies a celestial alignment that creates an auspicious period for spiritual cleansing and devotion. The Mahakumbh Mela is expected to host over 45 Crore visitors, marking a historic occasion for India.

New Delhi:

On a three-day visit to the Maha Kumbh, Philanthropist Sudha Murty helped serve the Mahaprasad in the ISKCON camp at Prayagraj. Wearing a green saree, and a black bag on her shoulders, Ms Murty is seen standing at the food counter, distributing chapattis to devotees visiting the Maha Kumbh.

Prayagraj | #Watch: Sudha Murthy helps serve the Mahaprasad in the ISKCON camp at Prayagraj#MahaKumbh2025 pic.twitter.com/NJjWykSxn8

— NDTV (@ndtv) January 22, 2025

In another video, Ms Murty is seen taking a tour of the ISKCON Mahaprasadam Kitchen and interacting with the volunteers, understanding how the food is prepared using machines.

Prayagraj | #Watch: Sudha Murthy touring the ISKCON Mahaprasadam Kitchen at Mahakumbh 2025, Prayagraj.#MahaKumbh2025 pic.twitter.com/whSSmzCMiz

— NDTV (@ndtv) January 22, 2025

Adani Group in collaboration with ISKCON is distributing Mahaprasad to more than 40 thousand devotees every day in the Maha Kumbh Mela area. ISKCON has undertaken the task of preparing the Mahaprasad in its kitchen built in Sector 19 of Prayagraj.

The kitchen, used to prepare Mahaprasad, is equipped with modern facilities like boilers to heat water and boil vegetables and rice. Tracks have been laid to carry heavy food containers. Three big machines have been installed to make rotis. Together, these machines prepare 10,000 rotis in an hour.

Excited Ms Murty arrived in Prayagraj on Monday. Calling Maha Kumbh a “Teerthraj”, Ms Murty said, “I am happy, excited and hopeful.”

Ms Murty took a holy dip in the Sangam on the first two days of her visit and intends to take it on the last day as well. Speaking to the news agency ANI, she said, “My maternal grandfather, maternal grandmother, grandfather, none of them could come – that is why I have to offer tarpan in their name and I am very happy…”

People visiting the Maha Kumbh Mela take a holy dip at Sangam Triveni, believed to wash away their sins. The religious congregation which began on January 13 will continue till February 26 and is expected to host 45 crore people.

Lucknow:

Google is celebrating the ongoing Maha Kumbh with a rose petal animation on its search screen.

If one looks up ‘Kumbh’, ‘Maha Kumbh’, ‘Kumbh Mela’, ‘Mahakumbh’ or any similar iterations on Google, the screen plays an animation in the background showing a virtual shower of rose petals.

Google also allows for the animation to be replayed or shared with others via email, Facebook, X, and WhatsApp. A third option allows one to dismiss the animation.

“Google search engine uniquely celebrates the commencement of Maha Kumbh 2025 at Prayagraj. When you search Maha Kumbh it will shower petals on the screen in honour of Maha Kumbh,” stated a message posted on the official X handle of the Maha Kumbh.

The Maha Kumbh — one of the largest spiritual gatherings on the planet — is being held on the banks of the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati rivers, in Prayagraj.

The mega fair, where millions of pilgrims turn up for a holy dip in the Sangam in their quest for ‘Moksha’ and to cleanse their sins in the sacred waters, kicked off on January 13 and will continue till February 26.

While nearly 5 crore people descended for the Maha Kumbh on the first two days itself, the Uttar Pradesh government, which is hosting the event, expects a footfall of 40 crore to 45 crore during the entire Mela period.

Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh):

The Uttar Pradesh police has set up a special floating police chowki (post) to assist devotees as the 45-day-long Maha Kumbh commenced on Monday, starting with the auspicious occasion of Paush Purnima.

#WATCH | Uttar Pradesh police built a special floating police chowki to help devotees as the 45-day #Mahakumbh2025 begins with the auspicious Paush Purnima, today pic.twitter.com/1JE2tzQ8mH

— ANI (@ANI) January 13, 2025

Prayagraj witnessed a large gathering of devotees at Triveni Sangam with the ‘Shahi Snan’ on the auspicious occasion of Paush Purnima.

A large number of devotees continued to arrive at the bank of Triveni Sangam – a scared confluence of rivers Ganga, Yamuna and ‘mystical’ Saraswati. Devotees took a holy dip and performed the sacred ritual on this auspicious occasion.

A devotee Vijay Kumar said, “… The arrangements here are very good. There is an arrangement for everything – for food and accommodation… the roads are also good.”

“We go to Kumbh Mela wherever it is organised. I live in a small temple – I go to every pilgrim in India…,” another devotee said.

This year, Maha Kumbh, the largest spiritual gathering in the world, has become more special because of the rare celestial alignment that occurs only once in 144 years.

Traffic Police authorities have made elaborate arrangements and implemented a detailed plan to ensure smooth vehicular movement and safety for devotees visiting the Maha Kumbh Mela.

Notably, the entry route to the Sangam Mela area will be through Jawaharlal Nehru Marg (Black Road), while the exit route will be via Triveni Marg. During the major bathing festivals, the Akshayavat Darshan will remain closed for visitors.

Parking lots for vehicles coming from Jaunpur would include Chini Mill Parking, Purva Surdas Parking, Garapur Road, Samyamai Temple Kachar Parking and Badra Saunoti Rahimapur Marg, Northern/Southern Parking.

Railway Board Chairman Satish Kumar talked about the preparations made for the Mahakumbh, saying that attention has been paid to the infrastructure of the railway stations.

“A lot of attention has been paid to the infrastructure of the railway stations. We have built new stations. We will run around 13,000 trains including the special and regular trains. This time 10,000 regular and 3,000 special trains will run,” Mr Kumar told ANI.

The Maha Kumbh is being celebrated after 12 years, and over 45 crore devotees are expected for the event. The Maha Kumbh will conclude on February 26.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

New Delhi:

India is all set to host the world’s largest gathering of humanity, with over 400 million people expected to gather in the city of Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh for the Maha Kumbh Mela or Great Pitcher Festival. A sacred event for Hindus, the Maha Kumbh is set to start on Monday, with devotees from across India and beyond lining up to take a holy dip at the confluence of three sacred rivers – the Ganga, the Yamuna, and the mythical, invisible Saraswati.

During six weeks from January 13 to February 26, pilgrims will take part in elaborate rituals, prayers and religious processions with elephants, as well as horse-back parades and chariots. 

Mythology Behind Maha Kumbh 

Source: AFP

The organisation of Maha Kumbh finds its roots in Hindu mythology that says lord Vishnu wrested a golden pitcher, or Kumbh, containing the nectar of immortality from demons. In a 12-day celestial fight for possession, four drops fell to earth, in the cities of Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain and Nashik, which host the festival every three years by rotation. 

The Kumbh is held once every 12 years in this cycle and has the prefix ‘maha’ (great) as it is considered more auspicious due to its timing and attracts the largest gathering.

Sacred Bathing

Source: AFP

A central part of the Kumbh Mela’s rituals is bathing in the holy rivers, with the dawn charge often led by naked, ash-smeared monks. Devout Hindus believe that taking a dip in the sacred waters during the Kumbh Mela absolves people of sins and brings salvation from the cycle of life and death.

Many pilgrims embrace a life of simplicity during the festival — vowing non-violence, celibacy and the offering of alms — and focusing on prayer and meditation. 

Key Dates

Source: AFP

The Holy bathing takes place every day of the Kumbh festivities, but on the most auspicious dates, it is known as Shahi Snan, or “royal bath”. Ceremonies also include the visually spectacular “aarti” when vast numbers of priests perform rituals holding flickering lamps.

Key dates include January 13, the start of the festivities that coincides with the full moon. One of the most popular days is January 29, Mauni Amavasya, when celestial alignments are said to be ideal for purifying waters. Celebrations culminate on February 26, Maha Shivaratri, the final holy bathing day. 

Mega Test Of Crowd Management

Source: AFP

Organisers say the scale of preparations for the Kumbh Mela is akin to setting up a country from scratch. It is a big test for authorities to showcase India’s ability to organise and manage the movement of millions of people and retain the ancient festival’s sanctity.

A sprawling 4,000 hectares of open land along the banks of the rivers has been converted into a temporary city to house the visitors in 150,000 tents and comes equipped with 3,000 kitchens, 145,000 restrooms and 99 parking lots.

Authorities are also installing up to 450,000 new electricity connections, with the Kumbh expected to drain more power than what 100,000 urban apartments in the region consume in a month.

Indian Railways has introduced 98 special trains that will make 3,300 trips during the festival to transport visitors besides regular trains that connect Prayagraj.

Prashant Kumar, the police chief of Uttar Pradesh, said around 40,000 police personnel and cybercrime experts have created a web of surveillance powered by artificial intelligence (AI) to protect and help navigate the sea of humanity at the site.

“Security and safety of pilgrims is our priority,” said Kumar.

Emergency response capabilities include 125 road ambulances, seven river ambulances and air ambulances for swift medical assistance.

The state government has allocated 64 billion rupees ($765 million) for this year’s event, officials said. It has also promoted the Kumbh Mela at several international tourism expositions and invited foreign representatives.

Prayagraj, UP:

Days before the commencement of the Mahakumbh festival, Inspector General of Police, Prayagraj Tarun Gaba said that a 7-layer security scheme is being implemented to avert any untoward incident in the mass religious gathering.

Talking to ANI on Wednesday, Tarun Gaba said, “Mahakumbh 2025 is the biggest gathering of humanity… We are committed to providing good arrangements here and the Mahakumbh festival should be celebrated in a very safe and orderly manner… We are ensuring impenetrable and foolproof security here. We have implemented a 7-layer security scheme in which people will be checked and suspicious persons will be identified at different levels. We are also coordinating with different agencies including state and centre agencies.”

“We are also trying to utilise AI-enabled cameras and using a total of 2700 cameras. And we are taking all necessary action to ensure a safe and secure completion of MahaKumbh.”

On Tuesday, Uttar Pradesh Police launched an intensive checking campaign under the leadership of Deputy Inspector General of Police Vaibhav Krishna (IPS) to ensure the smooth and secure conduct of Mahakumbh 2025.

The campaign focuses on heightened surveillance of suspicious individuals and activities at key locations such as Sangam Ghat, pontoon bridges, and major intersections.

The Deputy Inspector General instructed all station in-charges to enhance vigilance in their respective jurisdictions and maintain a proactive approach to security. Special measures were implemented to prevent any untoward incidents and ensure public safety.

Meanwhile, MoS Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol, paid a visit to review preparations for the Mahakumbh. He will also conduct a meeting with airport officials to review the arrangements done for the devotees gathering for the religious event. MoS Mohol also performed puja by sipping water at the Triveni Ghat.

Expressing joy, he said that he felt very happy to come here and the preparations have been done very well, adding to which he said, “Under the leadership of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath ji, I will hold a meeting with the airport officials here and review the arrangements made for the facilities of the visitors coming to the Mahakumbh, so that there is no chaos of any kind.”

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh:

With around 10 crore people expected to travel to Prayagraj by train for Mahakumbh early next year, several measures, including the installation of face recognition cameras, are being taken to enhance security at the nine railway stations here.

For the first time, the Prayagraj Railway Division will install face recognition (FR) cameras alongside CCTV at railway stations, specifically for the Mahakumbh, the Uttar Pradesh government said in a statement.

These FR cameras, powered by AI, will be instrumental in monitoring suspicious activities and identifying potential troublemakers, it added.

With approximately 10 crore people expected to travel by train for the Mahakumbh, the railway authorities are implementing comprehensive security measures, the release said.

Prayagraj Railway Division PRO Amit Singh said for the Mahakumbh, around 650 CCTV and 100 facial recognition cameras will be installed at the railway stations in Prayagraj.

He further added that the surveillance will cover routes, shelters, and platforms at all nine railway stations in the Prayagraj district.

“To ensure a safe and smooth experience for devotees and tourists during Mahakumbh, the Prayagraj Railway Division is installing AI-based face recognition cameras as part of the comprehensive security arrangements,” Singh said.

“These FR cameras use AI technology to recognise faces, helping in the identification of suspects even in crowded areas,” he said.

The approach will help control suspicious activities or potential stampede situations before they escalate as the cameras can swiftly detect unusual incidents, helping in accident prevention, he added. The security setup will be in place by the end of December, with all equipment operational by January, well ahead of the Maha Kumbh’s commencement, the official statement said.

The Mahakumbh is scheduled to take place in the holy city from January 14 to February 26.
 

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)