As the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 began on Monday with a large gathering of devotees taking the holy ‘Snan’ (bath), Uttar Pradesh’s Director General of Police (DGP), Prashant Kumar, spoke about the integration of modern technology with tradition in this year’s event. He emphasized the use of cutting-edge tools like drones and CCTV to enhance security and ensure smooth operations throughout the festival.
In an interview with ANI, DGP Prashant Kumar shared that the authorities have made extensive preparations, focusing on both the spiritual and safety aspects of the event. “The Maha Kumbh began this morning with the holy dip. Nearly 60 lakh people have already participated. This year’s Kumbh is a fusion of faith and modernity. Along with traditional police arrangements, we have implemented the latest technologies to ensure the safety of devotees, and it is making a positive impact,” he said.
He further added, “The UP Police is handling enhanced security, and we are strictly following the protocol. Today, there will also be a flower shower. We are managing crowds and traffic through drones and CCTV, with senior officers actively monitoring the situation since the early hours at the control rooms.”
The DGP also noted that feedback from the attendees has been positive, thanks to the expanded ghats and improved crowd management systems. “We’ve increased the length of the ghats, which has effectively prevented overcrowding. This Kumbh will be grand, divine, digital, and secure. All arrangements are in place to ensure a safe and spiritually enriching experience for all,” Kumar added.
In a further step to enhance security, the Uttar Pradesh Police has set up a floating police chowki (post) to assist the devotees during the 45-day-long event. The Traffic Police have also implemented elaborate plans to ensure smooth vehicular movement and the safety of visitors.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his appreciation for the start of Maha Kumbh 2025. In a post on X, PM Modi called the occasion “a very special day” for millions of people who cherish Bharatiya values and culture. “The Maha Kumbh 2025 commences in Prayagraj, bringing together countless people in a sacred confluence of faith, devotion, and culture. This event embodies India’s timeless spiritual heritage and celebrates faith and harmony,” he wrote.
PM Modi also conveyed his happiness at seeing the influx of pilgrims and tourists, wishing them a wonderful stay in Prayagraj. “I am happy to see Prayagraj abuzz with countless people coming there, taking the holy dip, and seeking blessings,” he added.
The Maha Kumbh 2025, the world’s largest human gathering, saw devotees queuing up for the Snan (holy dip) on the auspicious occasion of Paush Purnima. Devotees from across the world have gathered at the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mystical Saraswati rivers at Triveni Sangam.
The first major bathing ritual, the Shahi Snan or Amrit Snan, will take place on Tuesday, during the festival of Makar Sankranti.
This year’s Maha Kumbh holds extra significance due to a rare celestial alignment that occurs only once every 144 years.
The event, which takes place once every 12 years, is expected to attract over 45 crore devotees. The Maha Kumbh will conclude on February 26.
