Prayagraj: The 45-day Prayagraj Mahakumbh (January 13–February 26, 2025) is set to welcome an anticipated 40 crore devotees, with preparations underway to accommodate up to 100 crore, as announced by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. A key highlight is the Mauni Amavasya Muhurta on January 29, expected to draw six crore devotees for a holy bath, though arrangements are being made for ten crore participants.
Key Features of the Mahakumbh:
- Infrastructure Expansion: The event will cover 10,000 acres, with 12 kilometers of expanded ghats, ensuring ample space for pilgrims.
- Immersive Experiences: Visitors will have access to replicas of Char Dham, Dwadash Jyotirlingas, and other significant religious sites, enhancing the spiritual experience.
- AI Integration: An AI-powered Bhashini app in 11 Indian languages will provide real-time information about lost-and-found services (Khoya-Paya) and other festival-related details.
- Eco-Friendly Measures:
- 1.50 lakh toilets will support sanitation efforts.
- Zero liquid discharge systems and a ban on single-use plastics aim to promote sustainability.
- Precise Headcounts: Advanced technology will ensure accurate attendee records.
Adityanath emphasized that the Mahakumbh will set new benchmarks for cleanliness, safety, and organization, building on the transformative success of the 2019 Prayagraj Kumbh, which he noted had dispelled past associations with disorder and chaos. The event, he added, is also poised to significantly contribute to Uttar Pradesh’s economic growth plan.
Legacy of the 2019 Kumbh:
The 2019 Kumbh was hailed as a turning point, showcasing innovative measures to create a secure, well-organized, and hygienic event, leaving a lasting impression on visitors and raising global expectations for such gatherings.
The Mahakumbh 2025 is not just a spiritual confluence but a showcase of modern technology, environmental responsibility, and economic vision, reinforcing Uttar Pradesh’s cultural and developmental ethos.