Mahakumbh 2025: 3.5 Crore Devotees Take Holy Dip on Makar Sankranti
On the first day of Mahakumbh Mela 2025, lakhs of devotees braved harsh cold and dense fog to gather at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj to perform the sacred 'Amrit Snan' on Makar Sankranti. The Uttar Pradesh government said that more than 3.5 crores of people along with all the saints and seers had snan on the first day of the event. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath hailed the day as a demonstration of the immense faith and spiritual unity embodied in Sanatan Dharma, describing the Mahakumbh as a symbol of the religion's enduring power and significance.
The festival, known as Makar Sankranti, is celebrated in various names throughout India: Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Bihu in Assam, and Maghi in Punjab. The Triveni Sangam, where the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers merge, was turned into a common ground for millions to perform sacred rituals, and it underscored the unity embodied in the ancient Indian philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family).
Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) Prashant Kumar said that all modern technologies, such as AI-based tools, have been used to manage the crowds and traffic efficiently. Moreover, underwater monitoring and fire safety arrangements were made for the smooth management of the mega event. Kumar said that everything was working very well and was under control.
Prominent akharas (monastic orders) participated in the traditional processions leading to the holy dip. Shri Panchayati Akhara, Naya Udasin, and Nirvana Akhara left their camps in the early afternoon, with Shri Panchayati Nirmal Akhara being the last to conclude the ceremonial bathing.
The Mahakumbh Mela 2025, a Poorna Kumbh, will continue till February 26. Important snan dates are Mauni Amavasya on January 29, Basant Panchami on February 3, Maghi Purnima on February 12, and Maha Shivaratri on February 26. These dates are of great spiritual importance and attract millions of devotees from all over the world to the sacred site.
As part of crowd control measures, the Basic Education Department announced the closure of all schools up to Class 8 in Prayagraj on January 15 due to heavy traffic congestion following the first Shahi Snan. The decision was made to ensure the safety of students and facilitate better movement across the city.
BJP leader Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti described Mahakumbh as a 'once in 144 years celebration' and thanks God for letting her see it. On the other hand, Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav went to Haridwar to join Makar Sankranti celebrations by taking a dip in the Ganga river, describing his experience over social media while seeking divine blessings on the pious day.
Millions have been enthralled with spiritual fervor as well as by the meticulous organization that went into planning Mahakumbh Mela 2025, making sure that everyone here had a safe and enriching experience. The event highlights the very deep-seated traditions and collective faith that continue to form a part of the rich cultural tapestry of India.
