As Maha Kumbh 2025 kicked off on the auspicious occasion of Paush Purnima on Monday, devotees from across the world gathered in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, to experience the largest spiritual gathering on Earth and take a sacred dip in the Triveni Sangam.
Speaking to ANI, a foreign devotee shared his excitement about the event, saying, “From great thinkers, it is a very good experience to be with other spiritual seekers. I think the holy dip is the best. Every year, I go to the Ganga in Rishikesh and take a holy dip there, and I’ve been to Prayagraj once before, so I’m really looking forward to this.”
On his thoughts on Sanatan Dharma, he expressed, “This is very important. I think the wisdom of India has a lot to teach the world, and this will bring peace. I teach meditation and many thousands of people fall in love with the Vedic knowledge.”
Anthony Thompson, who traveled from London to take a dip in the sacred waters, said he felt “very humbled and privileged” to be part of such a grand event. Calling it an “extraordinary experience,” he shared, “I feel very humbled. I’ve been dreaming about coming here for over 40 years, and now I’m here. It’s not disappointing at all.”
Describing the experience, he added, “I feel excited but also humbled. It’s not just swimming; it’s something much more profound, much more essential for the spirit. It’s a deeply important moment.”
Thompson also mentioned the unique “vibe” in Prayagraj during the Kumbh Mela, saying, “There’s definitely a vibe. It’s a vibe of joy and reverence, a strange but beautiful combination.”
Francisco Soares de Guzman, from Brazil, expressed his spiritual connection to India, saying, “I feel more spiritual than ever. India is such an energetic place, and I feel I can find so much spirituality here. I’m very happy.” He also reflected on his practice, saying, “I love the Bharatiya mantras we sing here. It’s so moving to hear them live after practicing them at home in Brazil.”
Guzman, who runs a yoga school in Brazil, also shared his experience, “I teach yoga in the ghetto of Brazil. I have 30 kids learning mantras and 20 adults practicing yoga. Sanatan Dharma brings peace for my family and helps me fulfill my life.”
A couple from Italy, visiting for the first time, expressed their excitement about the holy dip and the energy of the place. “We arrived last night at 2 AM, and now we’re heading for the holy dip,” the husband shared. “I’ve been here before, and it’s such a great place with strong energy.”
He further stated, “India is full of holy places with strong energy, and the people are deeply religious. It’s something we don’t feel in our country.”
The Maha Kumbh 2025, already witnessing massive crowds, is set to welcome over 40 crore devotees over the course of the 45-day event. The first Shahi Snan will take place on Tuesday during Makar Sankranti.
In addition to the spiritual fervor, authorities have made robust security arrangements. NDRF teams, water police, and traffic authorities are on high alert, ensuring smooth access and safety for the millions attending this historic event.
