Millions Gather for Last ‘Amrit Snan’ as Authorities Tighten Security
The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, an event that takes place once every 12 years, reaches its grand conclusion today with the final holy dip at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj. Devotees from across India and beyond, including monks and pilgrims, have thronged the sacred ghats to mark Maha Shivratri, a festival dedicated to Lord Shiva.
This year’s Maha Kumbh was particularly significant due to a rare celestial alignment that occurs once in 144 years. Since its commencement on January 13 (Paush Purnima), the event has witnessed a staggering footfall, with over 65 crore devotees participating in various rituals, processions, and three major ‘Amrit Snans’.
Over 41 Lakh Devotees Take Early Morning Dip
By early morning, lakhs of devotees had already bathed in the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers. As per government data:
- By 2 am, 11.66 lakh devotees had taken the holy dip.
- Within two hours, this number surged to 25.64 lakh.
- By 6 am, over 41 lakh people had participated in the ritual.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, monitoring the proceedings since 4 am from his Lucknow residence, congratulated the pilgrims and saints on social media. He extended his greetings with a message invoking Lord Shiva, saying, “Har Har Mahadev!”
Stricter Security Measures After Recent Stampede
A tragic stampede during last month’s bathing day prompted authorities to reinforce security measures. More personnel have been deployed at key entry and exit points to manage the flow of people effectively. Surveillance through drones, CCTV cameras, and a dedicated control room has been set up to ensure safety.
To prevent overcrowding, barricades have been placed strategically, and specific time slots have been assigned for different groups of devotees. Authorities have also stationed medical teams across the ghats to handle any emergencies.
A Grand Farewell to a Historic Gathering
The Maha Kumbh has always been a spectacle of devotion, culture, and tradition. The massive gathering saw vibrant processions of ascetics, including the revered Naga sadhus, who performed rituals before taking their dips. The sound of conch shells and chants of ‘Har Har Gange’ echoed through the mela grounds as pilgrims sought spiritual cleansing.
With the last ‘Amrit Snan’ concluding today, devotees will gradually begin their departure from the holy city. As the event comes to an end, it leaves behind an unforgettable experience of faith, unity, and deep-rooted traditions.
