The ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj continues to witness a massive influx of devotees. Over 15 million pilgrims, including 1 million Kalpawasis, performed the holy dip at the Triveni Sangam—the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mystical Saraswati—by 10 PM on Monday.
According to the Uttar Pradesh government, more than 140 million people have taken a holy dip since the event began on January 13.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also participated in the religious congregation, taking a dip at the Sangam alongside Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Baba Ramdev, and other saints and sages. Several other leaders, including Union Ministers like Rajnath Singh, have visited the Maha Kumbh and performed the ritual dip.
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju expressed his reverence for the event after taking a holy dip, emphasizing the exceptional arrangements made by the Uttar Pradesh government. “Maha Kumbh is connected to the faith of crores of people. Taking a dip in the holy waters here is a significant moment in my life. Crores of pilgrims are visiting Prayagraj, and everyone is praising the arrangements. I congratulate UP CM Yogi Adityanath, his team, and the administration for their excellent work,” Rijiju told ANI.
The event has also drawn a significant number of international visitors. Antonio, a pilgrim from Italy, fulfilled his decade-long dream of attending the Kumbh Mela. “I feel fantastic,” Antonio shared, adding, “There’s a lot of blessings in this place. I’ve wanted to visit for over 10 years, and finally, I’m here.” Antonio’s fascination with India’s spiritual heritage deepened after completing a 2,000-kilometer pilgrimage on foot, known as a padh-yatra, that connected him to Indian saints.
Similarly, Esther, a pilgrim from Spain, found herself deeply moved by the spiritual energy of the Kumbh Mela. Despite initially feeling overwhelmed by the large crowds, she described her experience as transformative. “I’m feeling great right now,” Esther remarked.
Rooted in Sanatan Dharma, the Maha Kumbh Mela is held every 12 years and signifies a celestial alignment that marks an auspicious period for spiritual cleansing and devotion. This year’s event, running from January 13 to February 26, is expected to attract over 450 million visitors, making it a historic and spiritual milestone for India.
