Mon Feb 03 06:07:19 UTC 2025: **Millions Participate in Maha Kumbh’s Auspicious Amrit Snan**

Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, February 3, 2025 – The Maha Kumbh Mela witnessed its third “Amrit Snan” today, a sacred bathing ritual drawing an estimated 16.58 lakh devotees by 4 a.m. alone. This brings the total number of pilgrims who have taken the holy dip since January 13th to an astounding 34.97 crore, including 10 lakh kalpvasis (long-term pilgrims) and 6.58 lakh other pilgrims, according to information director Shishir. The Uttar Pradesh government anticipates a staggering five crore pilgrims on Monday.

The event, held on the auspicious occasion of Basant Panchami, saw Naga sadhus leading the procession to the Triveni Sangam (confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers) at dawn. This year’s Kumbh Mela is considered particularly auspicious due to a rare “Triveni Yog,” a celestial alignment occurring once every 144 years.

Increased security measures, implemented following a stampede during the previous Amrit Snan on Mauni Amavasya that resulted in at least 30 deaths and 60 injuries, were in place. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath personally oversaw preparations to ensure a “zero-error” event. Akharas (religious orders) from the Sanyasi, Bairagi, and Udaseen sects participated in a pre-determined sequence, each allotted a 40-minute window at the sacred waters.

The massive gathering underscores the immense spiritual significance of the Maha Kumbh, held once every 12 years, and highlights the meticulous planning and security arrangements undertaken by the Uttar Pradesh government to manage the vast number of devotees.

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