07-Feb-2025, 10:59 AM
The Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, has drawn massive crowds, with over 389.7 million devotees taking a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam since the festival began. By February 5, 2025, the number of devotees taking the holy dip had surpassed 389.7 million. Recent reports indicate that by February 6, the total number of devotees taking holy dips had reached 397.4 million.
The Uttar Pradesh government anticipated that over 450 million people would attend the 2025 Mahakumbh Mela. In the first 11 days alone, 97.3 million devotees, Kalpavasis, and seers took a dip at the Triveni Sangam. The Mela commenced on January 13 and is scheduled to conclude on Maha Shivaratri, February 26.
Key dates for holy dips include:
January 29 (Mauni Amavasya)1
February 3 (Basant Panchami)1
February 12 (Maghi Purnima)1
February 26 (Maha Shivaratri)1
The arrangements made by authorities have been lauded by pilgrims, who have praised the security, sanitation, and various amenities. One devotee described the experience of taking a dip in the Ganges as “surreal” and commended the organizers for managing the massive crowds.
To accommodate the large number of visitors, the Government of Uttar Pradesh has set up a temporary city covering 4,000 hectares and has increased the road length within the area by over 450 km to improve accessibility. Indian Railways has also increased the number of coaches in key trains and operated special trains to cater to the pilgrims. Parking facilities cover an area of 1,850 hectares.
The Additional Commissioner of Police (Prayagraj) has announced that prohibitory orders will remain in effect in the city until February 28 to prevent any untoward situation. Special arrangements are also being made in Ayodhya to manage the expected increase in devotees visiting the Ram temple after the Mahakumbh Mela.
