The Maha Kumbh Mela, the largest religious gathering globally, began on Monday in Prayagraj district of Uttar Pradesh, where a massive gathering of devotees immersed themselves in the Ganga river during the first ‘Shahi Snan’ for Pauh Purnima.
Images from the temple town of Prayagraj depicted worshippers gathering at various ghats in the city and immersing themselves in the Triveni Sangam, the meeting point of the mythological Ganga, Yamuna, and the Saraswati rivers to cleanse their sins and achieve salvation (moksha).
According to government statistics, around 40 lakh pilgrims bathed in the Triveni Sangam at 8 am on Monday.
PM Modi welcomed the devotees and wrote in a post on X, “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. The Maha Kumbh embodies India’s timeless spiritual heritage and celebrates faith and harmony.”
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Aditynath also extended his wishes to devotees and said, “Greetings on Paush Purnima. The world’s largest spiritual and cultural gathering ‘Mahakumbh’ is starting from today in the holy city of Prayagraj. All the revered saints, Kalpvasis and devotees who have come to experience unity in diversity, to meditate and take a holy bath at the confluence of faith and modernity are heartily welcomed. May Maa Ganga fulfil all your wishes. Best wishes for the inauguration and first bath of Maha Kumbh Prayagraj. Sanatan Pride-Maha Kumbh Festival,” Yogi Aditynathm, who is leading the Maha Kumbh preparations..”
Prior to the major event, state Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh assessed all the preparations and provided instructions to the officials.
Singh mentioned that the state’s budget for the 45-day grand event is approximately Rs 7,000 crore and stated that “the previous Kumbh was recognized for its sanitation efforts. This occasion focuses on hygiene, safety, and digital Kumbh.
Singh stated that officials from both the central and state governments are collaborating to ensure that the Maha Kumbh is a successful event and provides a satisfying experience for the devotees.
