Mon Jan 13 03:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Millions Immerse in Faith as Maha Kumbh 2025 Begins in Prayagraj
**Prayagraj, India** – The Maha Kumbh Mela, one of the world’s largest religious gatherings, commenced today in Prayagraj with the auspicious first Shahi Snan (royal bath) on Paush Purnima. Millions of devotees have already flocked to the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers, to take a holy dip, with an estimated 60 million participating by midday. Authorities anticipate a total of over 100 million attendees throughout the Kumbh.
The event, which runs until February, is marked by a unique celestial alignment of Buddha Aditya Yoga. Following the sacred bath, yajnas (sacrificial rites) will be performed for the well-being of the nation and fulfillment of wishes.
This year’s Maha Kumbh holds special significance, marking a 144-year cycle. Devotees from across India and the world, including a notable presence of Sadhus (holy men) in diverse attire, are participating in the festivities. Among them is Baba Mokshpuri, a former US soldier who has embraced spiritual life. Loren Powell Jobs, widow of late Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, also arrived in Prayagraj, clad in saffron, to participate in the rituals and potentially undertake a Kalpvas (spiritual retreat).
The event is not only a display of faith but also a significant economic driver, with the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) predicting over ₹2 lakh crore (approximately $24 billion USD) in business. Vendors are reporting brisk sales, surpassing even the 2019 Kumbh Mela in terms of both crowd size and revenue.
Extensive security measures are in place, including thousands of security personnel, CCTV cameras, and a war room monitoring activities. The Indian Ministry of Culture has deployed underwater drones for 24/7 surveillance, complemented by AI-powered cameras at entry gates.
The Kumbh Mela is not without controversy, with the Akhil Bharatiya Akhada Parishad condemning the placement of a statue of late Samajwadi Party founder Mulayam Singh Yadav within the Kumbh grounds.
The Indian Railways has also significantly increased its services, deploying 10,000 regular and 3,134 special trains to handle the massive influx of pilgrims.
The Maha Kumbh Mela will continue with five more Shahi Snans scheduled throughout January and February. The sheer scale of the event, combining faith, culture, and commerce, makes it a unique and powerful spectacle.
First Piper 