Wed Jan 29 13:40:00 IST 2025: ## Kumbh Mela’s Naga Sadhu Royal Bath Delayed by Stampede
**Prayagraj, India** – The royal bath of Naga Sadhus at the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, India, commenced hours behind schedule on Monday following a deadly stampede. The event, initially planned for 5 AM, was delayed by approximately ten hours after a late-night stampede resulted in several deaths and injuries.
The stampede occurred as devotees gathered to witness the procession of Naga Sadhus, leading to a crush near the Sangam confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers. Akhara Parishad president Ravindra Giri initially announced the cancellation of the royal bath, but after discussions with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and improved security measures, the event proceeded.
While the Naga Sadhus eventually performed their ritual bath, accompanied by a showering of flowers from helicopters, the atmosphere was markedly different from previous years. The usually large crowds lining the banks were replaced largely by police and security personnel, due to concerns over further incidents. Authorities believe that many of the stampede victims were individuals who had spent the night waiting to witness the procession.
The exact number of casualties remains unclear, but reports indicate that several people lost their lives in the stampede. The incident highlights the immense logistical challenges posed by managing the massive crowds attending the Kumbh Mela, one of the world’s largest religious gatherings. Investigations are underway to determine the precise cause of the stampede and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
First Piper 