Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: The world's largest spiritual gathering begins in Prayagraj

India’s Maha Kumbh Mela kicked off on Monday, drawing attention to the world's largest human gathering, with over 400 million visitors expected in Prayagraj over the next six weeks. This monumental event is not only a religious spectacle but also a symbol of India's rich cultural heritage.

What is the Kumbh Mela?

Held every three years in four cities along India’s sacred rivers, the Kumbh Mela attracts millions of Hindus who believe bathing in the holy waters can absolve sins and grant salvation. The "Maha" or "Great" Kumbh Mela, held once every 12 years, is considered especially auspicious, drawing the largest crowds.

The "Maha" or "Great" Kumbh Mela, held once every 12 years, is considered especially auspicious, drawing the largest crowds.Mahakumbh

The origin of the Kumbh Mela traces back to Hindu scriptures, particularly the Rigveda. The term "kumbh" refers to a pitcher that contained the nectar of immortality, which spilled at four key locations—Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain, during the mythical churning of the cosmic ocean (Sagar Manthan). These sacred sites have since become the venues for this grand festival.

Devotees from various Hindu sects, or Akharas, converge in grand processions to take part in the Shahi Snaan or royal bath, diving into the holy rivers. Among them, thousands of ascetics, often dressed in saffron robes, take part in near-freezing dips, adding to the event's mystique.

What's special about this year?

This year’s festival is even more extraordinary due to a rare celestial alignment that only happens once every 144 years, adding to the spiritual significance of the event. Prayagraj is set to host more than 400 million visitors. This includes not only sadhus and ascetics but also pilgrims from around the world, some seeking spiritual growth and others hoping to witness this awe-inspiring sight. Celebrities and spiritual leaders, such as actor Richard Gere, director David Lynch, and the Dalai Lama, have attended in the past. In 2017, UNESCO recognized the Kumbh Mela as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

With such an immense crowd, organizing the Kumbh Mela is no small feat. Authorities in Prayagraj have set up 150,000 tents to house pilgrims, more than three times the population of Russia. They’ve also provided 450,000 new electricity connections and extensive sanitation facilities to accommodate the massive influx of visitors. Surveillance drones and cameras will ensure safety, especially after past stampedes and a bridge collapse.

The infrastructure required is massive. The event is projected to cost over ₹300 million in power supplies alone. And while the event is a logistical challenge, it’s also a major economic boost, with estimates suggesting the state could earn over ₹2 lakh crore during the 45-day festival, as visitors spend on everything from accommodation to religious items.