Mon Jan 13 08:42:19 UTC 2025: **Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 Opens in Prayagraj with Record Turnout and Robust Security**
PRAYAGRAJ, INDIA – The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, billed as the world’s largest religious gathering, commenced in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh on Monday with an estimated 50 lakh (5 million) devotees already taking a holy dip in the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers.
Authorities reported smooth operations despite the immense crowds. Over 10,000 police and paramilitary personnel are deployed to manage the event, including mounted police units utilizing specially trained horses costing ₹1.5 crore (approximately $180,000 USD). These horses, including five American Warmbloods, are chosen for their ability to detect potential threats from a distance.
“The arrangements made are working fine. Crowd regulations and parking arrangements are working fine as well,” Deputy Inspector General of Police Vaibhav Krishna told ANI. Additional Director General of Police (ADG) Bhanu Bhaskar echoed this sentiment, stating that all forces have been deployed and are constantly monitoring the situation. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Rajesh Dwivedi confirmed the peaceful start to the Mela, noting the large influx of devotees and ongoing efforts to count those taking the holy dip.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the event on X (formerly Twitter), calling it a “very special day for crores of people who cherish Bharatiya values and culture.” He expressed his happiness at the large turnout and wished all pilgrims a wonderful stay. The Maha Kumbh 2025 holds added significance this year due to a rare celestial alignment occurring only once every 144 years. The first major Shahi or Amrit Snan is scheduled for Tuesday, marking the occasion of Makar Sankranti.
First Piper 