Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) [India]: A group of Pakistani pilgrims has arrived in Prayagraj to participate in the Maha Kumbh Mela, one of the world’s largest spiritual gatherings.
Speaking to media, the pilgrims expressed gratitude to the Indian government for facilitating a swift visa process, allowing them to take part in the sacred event. They also praised the event’s organization and shared their joy in visiting various spiritual camps and interacting with religious leaders.
Govind Ram Makhija, one of the pilgrims, expressed hope that the Indian government would continue granting visas to devotees from Pakistan in the future.
“We are here and we are very happy. It is very well organized, and we have been very well served. We never even imagined that it could happen,” he said, adding that his joy could not be expressed in words.
Another pilgrim, Ishwar Lal Makhija, commended the arrangements made for them.
“We are thankful to the Indian government, which has made excellent arrangements for us, right from the station to the camps,” he told ANI.
Priyanka, a first-time visitor to India, shared her excitement, stating,
“It feels great. It feels like we are very close to our culture here. Everything—our worship, our religious places—feels very familiar and heartwarming.”
Similarly, another devotee, Kavita, expressed immense joy and gratitude for being part of the Maha Kumbh Mela.
“We consider ourselves very fortunate. We are excited to learn more about our religion here. We are very thankful to the Indian government. They gave us a 25-day visa in just three days,” she said.
Another devotee, Gobind Ram, described the peaceful experience of attending the Mela.
“As soon as we reached here, we were listening to bhajans, and all night, we felt at peace. We are very happy and content.”
The Maha Kumbh Mela has drawn millions of devotees from around the world, with many praising the arrangements made by the authorities. As of February 5, 2025, the total number of devotees who have taken the holy dip since the event began has surpassed 389.7 million.
The Maha Kumbh 2025, which commenced on Paush Purnima (January 13, 2025), is regarded as the largest spiritual and cultural gathering in the world. The event will continue until Mahashivratri on February 26, 2025.