Maha Kumbh Mela: Around 15 crore pilgrims have taken a holy dip at the Sangam during the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela. Apart from being the world's largest human gathering, the mela has been in the news for several other reasons since it began on January 13.
Many faces like the IIT Baba, rudraksha seller Monalisa, and 7-foot-tall Russian Baba, have gone viral from the mela. Now, a video has surfaced where a man snatched a reporter's mic and ran away.
The video shows the journalist asking about a devotee's experience during the Maha Kumbh Mela, while another person tries to come close to him. The reporter asked the man to stay away and capture the full frame and soon he snatched his mic and ran away. However, ABP Live could not check the authenticity of the video.
The mela area has been made a no-vehicle zone and Prayagraj city has several route diversions in place, impacting the locals and visiting pilgrims.
With a total of 45 crore devotees anticipated by the time the festival concludes, the event continues to be a significant spiritual occasion for millions.
On January 16, 2025, the festival also witnessed unique international participation, with a 21-member delegation from 10 countries – Fiji, Finland, Guyana, Malaysia, Mauritius, Singapore, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Trinidad and Tobago, and the UAE – taking part in the holy dip at the Triveni Sangam. This gesture of global cultural exchange was supported by arrangements for the delegation’s stay at the Tent City in Arail.
With cutting-edge technology, extensive infrastructure development, and sustainable planning, the Maha Kumbh 2025 has set new standards in both event management and global cultural exchange. From the grand Shahi Snans to the mesmerising Akhara processions, the festival is a fine blend of India's spiritual traditions and modern advancements.