Mon Jan 13 05:24:26 UTC 2025: ## Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 Begins: Millions Take Holy Dip in Prayagraj

**Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India –** The Maha Kumbh Mela, the world’s largest religious gathering, commenced today in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, with over 5 million devotees taking the first holy dip at the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers. Expected to draw a staggering 400 million pilgrims over its 45-day duration (until February 26th), the event dwarfs the populations of both the US and Russia.

The massive undertaking, spread across 4,000 hectares, is projected to inject up to ₹2 lakh crore (approximately $24 billion USD) into Uttar Pradesh’s economy, potentially reaching ₹4 lakh crore depending on per-person spending. This surpasses the ₹1.2 lakh crore generated by the Ardh Kumbh Mela in 2019. Various sectors, including food and beverage, religious goods, transportation, tourism, and even digital services, are anticipated to contribute significantly. The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) estimates the food and beverage sector alone will contribute ₹20,000 crore.

Extensive preparations have been made, including the setup of 150,000 tents, 3,000 kitchens, and 145,000 restrooms. Over 40,000 police officers are deployed for security, complemented by AI-powered surveillance cameras. Indian Railways has added nearly 100 trains to manage the influx of pilgrims, and the Tourism Ministry has established a tent city offering Ayurvedic and Yoga facilities, particularly for the expected 1.5 million foreign tourists.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the event’s commencement, describing it as a special day celebrating India’s cultural and spiritual heritage. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized the Maha Kumbh’s significance as a symbol of unity in diversity. Key dates expected to draw the largest crowds include January 14th (Makar Sankranti), January 29th (Mauni Amavasya), February 3rd (Basant Panchami), February 12th (Maghi Purnima), and February 26th (Mahashivratri).

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