The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, one of the world’s largest religious gatherings, witnessed a phenomenal turnout on Makar Sankranti, as millions of devotees converged at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj to take the holy dip.
Marking the beginning of the sun’s northward journey (Uttarayan), the festival united people from across India and the globe, transcending caste, creed, and nationality.
Jeff, a visitor from the United States now residing in Lisbon, Portugal, shared his impressions: “The energy here is very calm and relaxing, and everyone is incredibly friendly. It feels wonderful to be a part of this.”
Paula, another devotee from the United States, expressed her gratitude in broken Hindi: “Today is a very good day. It is our good fortune to bathe with the sadhus and participate in Maha Kumbh alongside the sanyasis.”
An Iranian visitor, part of a group of nine international attendees, lauded the event’s organization: “We are staying in a well-organized tent colony. Everything is so impressively managed.”
Devotees filled the banks of the Sangam, chanting slogans like “Jai Shri Ram” and “Har Har Gange” as they immersed themselves in the sacred waters. The 13.8 million devotees who participated in the first ‘Amrit Snan’ by 10:30 am on Tuesday exemplified the unparalleled spiritual fervor of the event.
Under the leadership of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the Maha Kumbh has become a celebration of India’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. Congratulating the devotees, CM Yogi shared his sentiments on social media: “This is the living form of our eternal culture and faith. On this auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti, congratulations to all the devotees who earned virtue by taking the first ‘Amrit Snan’ at the Triveni Sangam in Mahakumbh-2025, Prayagraj!”
The Chief Minister also extended Makar Sankranti wishes, emphasizing the festival’s essence as a day to express gratitude to Surya Dev, the Sun God.
The Maha Kumbh has brought together people from diverse backgrounds, providing a unique platform to experience the unity in diversity that defines India. Foreign participants have been particularly impressed by the hospitality and meticulous planning that went into organizing the event.
As the festival continues until February 26, it is expected to draw over 450 million devotees, making it a resounding testament to India’s spiritual legacy and communal harmony.
