The Maha Kumbh 2025 witnessed an overwhelming spiritual gathering as 13.8 million devotees took a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj by 10:30 AM on Tuesday, marking the first ‘Amrit Snan’ on the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti, officials reported.
Adding to the grandeur, a helicopter showered flowers over the Akharas between 10:30 and 11:00 AM, symbolizing blessings and celebrating the religious fervor of the event. On the opening day of the world’s largest spiritual gathering, over 1.5 crore pilgrims participated in the holy ritual.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath extended his heartfelt congratulations to the devotees. In a post on X, he described the event as a “living form of India’s eternal culture and faith.”
“On the auspicious occasion of the great festival of folk faith, ‘Makar Sankranti,’ congratulations to all the devotees who earned virtue by taking the first ‘Amrit Snan’ at the Triveni Sangam in Maha Kumbh-2025, Prayagraj!” wrote the Chief Minister.
Earlier, he also conveyed warm wishes to the people of Uttar Pradesh, referring to Makar Sankranti as a festival of gratitude to the Sun God, the “father of the universe.”
The 13 Akharas of Sanatan Dharma participated with fervor, with many Sadhus taking the holy dip at the Sangam.
Foreign devotees, who have been part of previous Kumbh Melas, shared their awe. A devotee said, “This is my third Kumbh Mela. I attended Haridwar in 2010, Prayagraj in 2013, and now again. Despite the chaos, there is an unchanging essence beneath it all. The police are managing the crowd remarkably. Here, you learn to go with the flow.”
Swami Chidambaranand, Mahamandaleshwar of Mahanirvani Akhara, spoke about the cultural significance: “This is the grandeur of Indian civilisation. Crores of people are celebrating our cultural pride. Despite the cold, people have been eagerly waiting since 2 AM to glimpse the saints. It’s an experience of unparalleled joy and unity.”
He also emphasized the spiritual equality that the Kumbh embodies: “In this sea of devotees, there is no caste or division—only Hindus and the rich essence of Hindu culture. Those who criticize our faith should witness this unity.”
Another foreign devotee described the Maha Kumbh as an event that transcends borders: “Maha Kumbh is not just an occasion for India but for the entire world.”
The Maha Kumbh 2025, celebrated every 12 years, continues to exemplify India’s spiritual and cultural grandeur, drawing millions from across the globe to experience its divine essence.