Tue Jan 28 15:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Kumbh Mela Sees Record-Breaking Attendance

**Prayagraj, India** – The ongoing Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj is witnessing an unprecedented surge in devotees taking the holy dip in the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. The numbers have reached record-breaking levels, surpassing even earlier projections.

Tuesday, preceding the main bathing festival of Mauni Amavasya, saw a staggering 48.3 million devotees taking the holy dip, surpassing the previous record of 35 million on Makar Sankranti (January 14th). This includes over one million ascetics (Kल्पवासी). In just 16 days, a total of 195.9 million pilgrims have participated in the Kumbh Mela.

The sheer scale of the pilgrimage was evident early Tuesday morning, with all roads leading to the Sangam choked with pilgrims of all ages. By noon, a remarkable 18.8 million had already taken the bath, exceeding the entire day’s total for the previous major bathing festival. The authorities are anticipating 80-100 million devotees for Mauni Amavasya.

One remarkable pilgrim, Kajjan from Aravali in Gujarat, cycled 1250 km to reach the Kumbh Mela, donating his bicycle after performing his rituals. He stated his journey was undertaken to maintain good health and fulfill a long-held wish.

The massive influx of devotees, many walking up to 20 kilometers to reach the Sangam, highlights the profound religious significance of the Kumbh Mela, drawing millions from across India and abroad.

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