Despite foggy conditions and chilly weather, a massive gathering of devotees flocked to the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj on Tuesday to participate in the ongoing Maha Kumbh.
Record Turnout of Devotees
According to the Uttar Pradesh government, over 1.597 million devotees took a holy dip at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers on the ninth day of the religious event. As of January 20, a staggering 88.1 million people have already performed the sacred ritual at the Triveni Sangam.
Weather Update and Arrangements
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported dense fog in the morning with the minimum temperature in Prayagraj at 11°C. Despite the foggy conditions, flight operations at Prayagraj Airport remained unaffected.
Thousands of devotees thronged the ghats early in the morning, undeterred by the weather, to partake in this auspicious tradition.
Prominent Visitors and Their Experiences
Rajya Sabha MP Sudha Murty was among the notable visitors to the Maha Kumbh. She expressed her joy and excitement during her three-day visit to the event.
“I am very excited because this is ‘Teerthraj.’ It (Maha Kumbh) came after 144 years, and I am excited, hopeful, and extremely happy,” Murty shared with media.
Upcoming Key Dates
The Maha Kumbh, one of the world’s largest religious gatherings, occurs every 12 years at one of four locations in India. The key remaining dates for ceremonial baths include:
- January 29: Mauni Amavasya (Second Shahi Snan)
- February 3: Basant Panchami (Third Shahi Snan)
- February 12: Maghi Purnima
- February 26: Maha Shivaratri
Security and Safety Measures
To ensure the safety of devotees, over 10,000 personnel, including local police and paramilitary forces, have been deployed by Uttar Pradesh Police. Additionally, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has stationed “water ambulances” at the Sangam.
Duration of Maha Kumbh
The Maha Kumbh, which began on January 13, will continue until February 26.