Prayagraj: The Prayagraj Mahakumbh 2025 began on a high note, drawing an overwhelming influx of devotees and spiritual seekers. With over 3.5 crore revered saints, ascetics, devotees, and Kalpwasis taking the sacred dip at the holy Sangam on the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti’s first Amrit Snan, the event became a vibrant celebration of faith, devotion, and spirituality.
The Uttar Pradesh Urban Development and Energy Minister, A.K. Sharma, described the scene as a confluence of faith, spirituality, and cultural heritage. He extended his heartfelt greetings to all saints, devotees, and Kalpwasis who participated in the ceremonial bathing and conveyed his wishes to the people of the nation on the pious occasion of Makar Sankranti.
A Testament to Faith and Devotion
The minister emphasized the significance of the Amrit Snan, which holds immense spiritual value in Sanatan Dharma. He commended the contributions of the revered saints and ascetics, whose presence magnifies the sanctity of the Mahakumbh. He described the event as a reflection of India’s rich cultural and spiritual traditions, where people from across the globe come together to seek inner peace and enlightenment.
Over the two days of Pausha Purnima (January 13) and Makar Sankranti (January 14), more than 5.5 crore pilgrims bathed in the Sangam, with 3.5 crore devotees taking the holy dip on Makar Sankranti alone. Foreign visitors also participated in large numbers, finding the Mahakumbh to be a soul-stirring experience.
Ensuring Cleanliness and Modern Facilities
A.K. Sharma highlighted the comprehensive arrangements made to ensure a smooth and enriching experience for all visitors. Cleanliness and sanitation remain the top priorities at this year’s Mahakumbh, with over 14,000 sanitation workers deployed to keep the vast fairground spotless. Modern technology, including mechanized cleaning tools, has been introduced to maintain hygiene at the highest standards.
- Toilets: 1.5 lakh
- Drinking Water Facilities: Thousands of water taps and 250 water ATMs
- Changing Rooms: Designated areas for women to change after the holy dip
- Shelter Homes: Adequate accommodation and food services for pilgrims
To prevent inconvenience during bathing, nine ghats have been specially developed, and efforts have been made to ensure accessibility for all.
Technological Integration for Safety and Convenience
Modern technology has been integrated into the management of Mahakumbh 2025. Over 50,000 GIS-based QR codes have been installed on electric poles across the fairgrounds to assist devotees in navigating the area, finding lost companions, and accessing essential services. This innovative approach has received widespread appreciation.
Government’s Appreciation and Appeal
Shri A.K. Sharma expressed gratitude to all agencies, including the fair administration, urban development, energy departments, police, and volunteers, for their tireless efforts in ensuring the success of the first Amrit Snan. He also appealed to devotees, shopkeepers, and Kalpwasis to cooperate in maintaining the cleanliness of the fairground.
Foreign visitors have lauded the cleanliness, organization, and cultural richness of Mahakumbh 2025. The minister urged everyone to visit Prayagraj and witness this grand confluence of faith, spirituality, and devotion, calling it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
A Symbol of India’s Cultural and Spiritual Grandeur
Prayagraj Mahakumbh 2025 is not merely a religious event but a symbol of India’s enduring cultural and spiritual legacy. It showcases the unity in diversity of the country, inviting people from different backgrounds to immerse themselves in the spiritual ethos and timeless traditions of the nation.
As the Mahakumbh progresses, it is set to draw millions more, reaffirming its place as one of the most significant spiritual gatherings globally.