Mon Feb 03 02:04:45 UTC 2025: ## Millions Take Holy Dip at Maha Kumbh Mela Amidst Tight Security
**Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, February 3, 2025** – The Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj witnessed its third “Amrit Snan” on Basant Panchami, attracting an estimated 16.58 lakh devotees by 4 a.m. alone, bringing the total number of participants since January 13th to a staggering 34.97 crore, including 10 lakh kalpvasis and 6.58 lakh pilgrims, according to Information Director Shishir. This comes after a stampede during the previous Amrit Snan resulted in at least 30 deaths and 60 injuries. The Uttar Pradesh government anticipates around five crore pilgrims on Monday alone.
The event saw Naga sadhus and other ascetics embarking on a ceremonial journey to the Triveni Sangam for the sacred dip. Security measures were significantly heightened following the Mauni Amavasya stampede, with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath personally overseeing preparations. Additional personnel, medical staff, and resources have been deployed to prevent further incidents.
The holy dip followed a strict schedule, with akharas from the Sanyasi, Bairagi, and Udaseen sects participating in a pre-determined sequence, each allocated a 40-minute window at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers.
This year’s Maha Kumbh, held once every 12 years, is considered particularly auspicious due to a rare “Triveni Yog,” a celestial alignment occurring only once every 144 years. The Amrit Snan dates are determined by specific planetary alignments believed to amplify the spiritual potency of the sacred rivers. The event continues to draw hundreds of thousands of devotees from across the globe seeking spiritual liberation.
First Piper 