Mon Jan 13 10:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Millions Flock to Kumbh Mela 2025 as PM Modi Sends Greetings
**Prayagraj, India** – The Mahakumbh Mela, one of the world’s largest religious gatherings, commenced today with an estimated 5 million devotees taking their first ritual bath in the Sangam confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers. Authorities anticipate even larger crowds throughout the festival. The opening day saw immense enthusiasm and a massive turnout, with reports suggesting attendance in the tens of millions.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his best wishes for a successful Kumbh Mela, expressing his happiness at the event’s commencement. However, the festival has not been without controversy. The installation of a statue of Mulayam Singh Yadav at the mela site has drawn criticism and condemnation from the Akhara Parishad.
Other news highlights from India include:
* **Politics:** A significant political battle is brewing in Delhi’s upcoming 2025 elections, with a focus on voters from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Additionally, Aam Aadmi Party leader Arvind Kejriwal accused the Election Commission of a serious offense, alleging that Awadh Ojha will be prevented from contesting the elections.
* **Bollywood:** The film industry continues to generate headlines with discussions about box office successes and failures, as well as the recent birth of Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma’s child. The career of former actress Barkha Madan, who left Bollywood to become a Buddhist nun, has also been revisited.
* **Sports:** Updates on the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025, including team announcements and previews, have been released. A brawl between a Pakistani all-rounder and a Bangladeshi bowler during a live match has also gone viral.
International news includes reports of a devastating fire in Los Angeles resulting in at least 26 deaths, a coal mine collapse in Pakistan, and ongoing concerns regarding American citizens held captive by the Taliban. A strong earthquake (magnitude 6.2) struck an unnamed country, causing widespread fear. Economic news includes China’s surprising export surge in December and updates on market trends, including IPO listings and gold prices.
First Piper 