Wed Feb 12 12:03:34 UTC 2025: **Millions Take Holy Dip at Prayagraj’s Mahakumbh Magh Purnima Festival**
Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India – February 12, 2025 – Millions of devotees converged on Prayagraj for the Magh Purnima holy dip at the Triveni Sangam, marking the culmination of the month-long Kalpavas ritual at the Mahakumbh Mela. Over 73.60 lakh devotees took the dip on Wednesday alone, bringing the total number of pilgrims to the Kumbh Mela grounds to over 38.83 million, with over 10 million Kalpwasis participating. Authorities reported that more than 4.88 crore devotees have taken a holy bath during the festival so far.
The event was deemed a success by officials, despite the massive crowds. Extensive security measures were implemented, including a vehicle ban in the Mahakumbh area. Over 9,000 security personnel, along with 60 RAF companies, and more than 322 civil officers were deployed to manage the crowds. While Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police Prashant Kumar attributed a previous stampede to an overwhelming response rather than administrative failure, significant efforts were made to prevent similar incidents.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath paid tribute to Sant Shiromani Guru Ravidas on his birth anniversary, which coincided with Magh Purnima, and lauded the peaceful and successful event. He stated that the event showcased the new Uttar Pradesh and the immense faith of its people. Devotees also participated in similar rituals at other sacred sites, including the Saryu river in Ayodhya and Har Ki Pauri in Uttarakhand.
The Mahakumbh Mela, which began on January 13th, is expected to conclude on February 26th with the Mahashivratri snan. Despite the overall success of the event, nine pilgrims returning from the Mela were killed in two separate road accidents in Madhya Pradesh. The event attracted a diverse crowd, including international pilgrims like Edward from Belgium who shared his positive experience.
First Piper 