January 13, 2025: The grand spectacle of Mahakumbh 2025 has officially begun in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, drawing millions of devotees from across the globe to the banks of the sacred Sangam. Over the course of the event, an estimated 45 crore pilgrims are expected to participate, marking it as the largest religious gathering on Earth.
The mela started with fervent devotion, as lakhs of people arrived to take a holy dip at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers. Authorities anticipate that Paush Purnima on January 13 will witness a footfall of nearly 1 crore devotees, while Makar Sankranti on January 14 is expected to see over 3 crore people performing the ritualistic dip, seeking spiritual cleansing and blessings.
To manage such an enormous influx, the mela area has been fortified with an unprecedented security setup. A seven-ring security plan has been implemented, with around 40,000 personnel, including paramilitary forces and specialized teams, deployed to ensure the safety of pilgrims. Advanced technology has also been integrated into the security measures, with 2,751 CCTV cameras, including 328 AI-enabled ones, installed at critical locations like Sangam and the vast tent city. These systems, connected to an enhanced Integrated Command and Control Centre, provide real-time updates to assist with crowd and traffic management.
Adding to the high-tech surveillance, 20 state-of-the-art drones have been deployed to monitor all 25 sectors of the mela, providing live aerial coverage. An anti-drone system, manned by expert teams, has been activated to address any potential threats, ensuring a secure environment for the event.
In an effort to manage traffic effectively, the entire mela area has been declared a no-vehicle zone, with a comprehensive diversion plan in place across seven major routes leading to the Sangam. Pilgrims are directed to parking zones, from where they can proceed on foot or via designated transport to reach the holy site.
For the convenience of visitors, a massive tent city has been established, offering accommodation to over 1.5 lakh pilgrims. The infrastructure caters to both domestic and international visitors, providing essential amenities and a safe, comfortable environment.
Beyond its spiritual significance, Mahakumbh 2025 is also a cultural celebration, with events showcasing India’s rich heritage being held at various locations, including Sanskriti Gram. The mela has transformed Prayagraj into a vibrant hub of devotion, tradition, and community spirit, as millions come together in pursuit of faith and renewal.
As the Mahakumbh unfolds, Prayagraj stands as a testament to India’s enduring spiritual legacy, seamlessly blending age-old traditions with modern technology to host this monumental gathering.