The Mahakumbh has witnessed a huge influx of devotees. So far, 593.1 million people from across the country and the world have taken a holy dip in the Sangam. It is expected that this number will cross 600 million by this evening or tomorrow.
As of February 11, 2025, 45 crore devotees have participated in the Mahakumbh Sannava rituals, the largest religious gathering in history. The state government had expected the number of devotees to reach 45 crore in 45 days, but this figure has been achieved in a month, with 15 days left. With its spiritual significance, grand rituals and modern technological interventions, the Kumbh Mela has set new standards in crowd management, sanitation and digital facilitation.
Crowd management has been a major focus as the number of visitors has crossed 45 crore. The next Amrit Sannava is on February 12, 2025, the Magha Purnima Sannava, which is famous for the worship of Guru Jupiter and the belief that the Hindu gods Gandharvas descend from the sky to the holy Sangam. To ensure smooth flow of people during the Magha Purnima bath, the state government has declared the fair area as a ‘no-traffic zone’ from the morning of February 11, 2025, with only essential and non-emergency services allowed.
Indian Railways is also working at full capacity to transport the Maha Kumbh 2025 crowd. On February 9, around 330 trains carried 12.5 lakh pilgrims and another 130 trains have run till 3 pm on February 10. The preparations for the upcoming Amrit Sanbhu on February 12, 2025 were reviewed by the officials and the Union Minister. While all eight stations, including Prayagraj Junction, are fully functional, Prayagraj Sangam station remains temporarily closed on the main Sanbhu date to facilitate passenger movement.
The state government, in collaboration with various agencies, has implemented multi-layered security and monitoring systems. A network of AI-powered CCTV cameras, drone surveillance and real-time analytics is ensuring the safe movement of pilgrims in designated areas. The administration has also introduced a digital token system to ease access to the bathing ghats to reduce overcrowding. Special arrangements were made for senior citizens and differently-abled devotees to ensure that the Kumbh is an inclusive spiritual experience.
Joining the historic significance of Maha Kumbh 2025, the Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Draupadi Murmu, participated in the religious festival on February 10, 2025. The President also paid homage at major religious places and interacted with saints and devotees. Apart from President Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and several Union Ministers, Chief Ministers and Governors also took a holy dip in the Sangam. Bollywood celebrities and Indian sportspersons, who are associated with religious rituals and public figures, have also made their presence felt. The participation of respected saints and spiritual leaders has added to the sanctity and grandeur of the event.
Kalpabhas, fasting and spiritual discipline, hold deep significance during the Maha Kumbh. This year, over 10 lakh devotees observed Kalpabhas at Triveni Sangam, which concluded with the final holy dip, puja and alms on Magha Purnima. As per tradition, Kalpabhasis will perform Satyanarayana Katha, perform yagna puja and offer alms to their pilgrims. At the beginning of Kalpabhas, the yaya sown in the Ganges is immersed and Tulsi trees are taken home as a blessing from the gods. The twelve-year Kalpabhas cycle concludes with the Maha Kumbh, followed by a community feast in their village.
More than seven lakh pilgrims have availed medical services through comprehensive healthcare facilities. Out of this, over 4.5 lakh individuals have been treated in 23 allopathic hospitals, over 3.71 lakh pathology tests have been conducted and 3800 minor and 12 major successful surgeries have been performed. In addition, 20 Ayush hospitals have provided Ayurvedic, Homeopathic and Naturopathic treatment to over 2.18 lakh pilgrims. The integration of AIIMS Delhi, AMS BHU and international experts from Canada, Germany and Russia has ensured world-class healthcare. Services like Panchakarma, Yoga therapy and distribution of health awareness materials have been well received, which enhances the overall well-being of the attendees.
The authorities have implemented a waste management plan with an aim to keep the Kumbh Mela clean. Over 22,000 sanitation workers have been deployed to ensure that the premises remain clean. A major water purification initiative has also been implemented to keep the Mahanadi water clean and suitable for holy immersion. Eco-friendly practices like ban on plastic and use of biodegradable cutlery have been strictly enforced. The impact of the Swachh Bharat Mission is evident in the installation of thousands of bio-toilets and automatic waste disposal units at the Kumbh Mela grounds.
Throughout the event, cultural programmes featuring classical dance performances, folk music, and spiritual discourses have taken centre stage and attracted devotees and visitors. Renowned artists, including Padma awardees and folk groups from various states, perform various traditions of India through Kathak, Bharatanatyam, and traditional folk dances like Lavani and Bihu. The Kumbh Mela also hosts various literary gatherings, where scholars discuss the relevance of ancient scriptures, Vedic philosophy, and contemporary religion. Craftsmen are skilled.
