Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) [India], January 26: The Maha Kumbh, which began on January 13 with the auspicious Paush Purnima, has already seen a massive turnout, with over 110 million devotees taking a holy dip in the sacred waters of Prayagraj during its first 14 days.
On Sunday, as part of the ongoing spiritual celebrations at the Maha Kumbh Mela, Bageshwar Dham Chief Dhirendra Krishna Shastri met Swami Chidanand Saraswati, the President of Parmarth Niketan Ashram. Shastri described the event as a “Sangam of Triveni” — a confluence of saints, devotees, and masters, and praised Swami Chidanand Maharaj for organizing a Mahasangam of saints at the Kumbh.
Shastri also shared details of a major upcoming event, stating, “On January 30th, a Dharm Sansad will be held for the nation and the awakening of Hindutva… It is a unique experience and beyond imagination, with saints and Mahatmas here chanting, even in the absence of facilities.”
In another highlight, legendary boxer and Olympic medallist MC Mary Kom expressed her joy at being able to participate in the Maha Kumbh. “I am very happy that I could be part of this Kumbh Mela. The arrangements are so good, I have no words,” Mary Kom said.
Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav also took a holy dip at the Maha Kumbh during his visit to Prayagraj on Sunday. Speaking to the media afterward, Yadav said, “People come here with their faith. I took 11 holy dips. There is no place for divisive and negative politics. The day I took a dip at Haridwar, it was a festival. Today, I had the opportunity to take a holy dip here.”
The Maha Kumbh, held every 12 years, is expected to attract millions of devotees from January 13 to February 26. Pilgrims gather at the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati River, to take a dip believed to cleanse sins and grant moksha (liberation).
Rooted in Sanatan Dharma, the event is considered a celestial alignment, creating an auspicious time for spiritual renewal and devotion. The 2025 Maha Kumbh is expected to host over 45 crore visitors, marking a historic milestone for India.