Mahakumbh 2025: Surge in Crowd Two Days Before Conclusion, Impact Reaches Kashi & Ayodhya

As Mahakumbh 2025 nears its conclusion, the number of devotees visiting the sacred gathering has seen an unexpected surge. Despite all five Shahi Snan (royal bathing festivals) being completed, the influx of pilgrims has not slowed down. By the time of the final holy dip on Mahashivratri (February 26), the total number of visitors is expected to exceed 65 crore, far surpassing initial estimates.Before the commencement of Mahakumbh, officials had predicted that around 40 crore devotees would participate in the religious event. However, the enthusiasm and spiritual fervor of devotees have pushed the numbers to unprecedented levels. The grand religious fair, which began on January 13, 2025, at the Triveni Sangam—the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers—has drawn devotees from across India and the world.The impact of this immense gathering is not limited to Prayagraj alone. Pilgrimage centers such as Kashi (Varanasi) and Ayodhya have also witnessed a significant increase in footfall as devotees extend their spiritual journey beyond the Mahakumbh. The spiritual significance of the event, coupled with the anticipation of the final ritual baths on Mahashivratri, has led to a last-minute rush of pilgrims eager to take part in the sacred rituals.As the grand spectacle of faith and devotion approaches its final day, the administration is on high alert, ensuring smooth crowd management and safety measures. With lakhs of devotees still arriving daily, the concluding moments of Mahakumbh 2025 are set to witness one of the largest gatherings in human history.