The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj has already witnessed over 15 crore pilgrims taking a holy dip in the sacred waters of the Triveni Sangam since its commencement over two weeks ago. With Mauni Amavasya and the second Amrit Snan scheduled for Wednesday, the grand festival continues to attract millions of devotees to the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati.
According to the Uttar Pradesh government, the 45-day-long religious congregation is expected to see a total footfall of over 45 crore people. On Makar Sankranti (January 14) alone, 3.5 crore devotees, saints, and Kalpwasis participated in the Amrit Snan, the state government said. Drone footage shared by ANI captured the massive gatherings at the ghats.
Maha Kumbh Mela: Security Measures In View Of Amrit Snan On Mauni Amavasya
The Prayagraj administration has intensified security measures in anticipation of Wednesday's Amrit Snan on Mauni Amavasya, a key bathing day. The event is expected to draw around 10 crore devotees in a single day. AI-powered CCTV cameras and drones have been deployed to monitor the Mela area, which spans several hectares. Police personnel have been stationed at key locations to ensure the smooth movement of pilgrims, news agency PTI reported.
To manage the influx of visitors, the Mela area has been declared a no-vehicle zone for the coming days. District Magistrate Ravindra Kumar Mandar urged local residents to avoid using four-wheelers and instead opt for two-wheelers or walk, except when transporting senior citizens to the Sangam.
"The residents are requested to use two-wheelers or walk to facilitate the movement of pilgrims from across the globe," said Mandar, as quoted by PTI.
To mark the auspicious occasion, the state government has planned a flower shower from helicopters at 6:45 am on Wednesday. By 8 am on Tuesday, over 45 lakh devotees had already taken a holy dip, officials said.
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The Amrit Snan, formerly known as Shahi Snan, is the most significant ritual of the Maha Kumbh, attracting saints and ascetics from various akharas in a grand procession. The dates for the Amrit Snan are determined based on astrological alignments of the Sun, Moon, and Jupiter, which are believed to enhance the spiritual power of the sacred rivers.
Mauni Amavasya, observed on Magh Krishna Amavasya in the Hindu calendar, is considered the most auspicious bathing day of the Kumbh. It is believed that on this day, the waters of the holy rivers turn into 'Amrit' (nectar of immortality). The ritual bath is traditionally performed in silence, leading to the day being referred to as the 'Amavasya of the Saints.'
To accommodate the massive crowds, the Prayagraj administration has announced the closure of schools for Classes 1 to 8 across all boards on January 28, 29, and 30. The Allahabad High Court has also declared a holiday on the occasion of Mauni Amavasya.
The Maha Kumbh Mela, which takes place once every 12 years, began on January 13 and will continue till February 26.