Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) [India]: Swami Chidanand Saraswati, President of Parmarth Niketan Ashram, expressed deep sorrow over the tragic stampede during the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, calling it an “unfortunate incident” and emphasizing the need to adhere to administrative guidelines to ensure public safety.
Commending the Akhara Parishad’s decision to prioritize devotees for the sacred dip, Swami Saraswati also lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for their constant vigilance in maintaining security during the massive religious gathering.
“Whatever happened was very unfortunate. The administration’s orders and messages should have been followed. People are coming in large numbers and taking a holy dip. I express my condolences to those who lost their lives,” Swami Saraswati told ANI.
He further stated, “I would like to say that PM Modi, CM Yogi, and the entire administration are constantly on alert to prevent any untoward incidents… I am very happy that the Akhara Parishad has decided that devotees will take the holy dip first, followed by the saints.”
The stampede-like situation occurred in the early hours of Wednesday as millions of devotees gathered at the confluence of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers for a holy dip on the auspicious occasion of Mauni Amavasya, which marks the Second Shahi Snan of the Maha Kumbh.
Following the incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah reached out to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, assuring full support from the central government.
Business tycoon and Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani also expressed grief over the incident, extending condolences to the bereaved families and pledging support for those affected.
In response to the tragedy, heavy security deployment has been enforced at the Triveni Sangam to ensure smooth arrangements for the upcoming Amrit Snan of saints and akharas on Mauni Amavasya.
According to the Uttar Pradesh government, 36.1 million devotees had taken the holy dip at Triveni by 10 AM on Wednesday. The remaining major bathing dates during the Maha Kumbh 2025 include:
- February 3 – Basant Panchami
- February 12 – Maghi Purnima
- February 26 – Maha Shivaratri
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely to prevent further mishaps and ensure the safety of millions attending the sacred event.