Maha Kumbh Mela begins in UP's Prayagraj with holy dip at Sangam

The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 began at Prayagraj’s Sangam—the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers—on Monday, drawing over 40 lakh devotees for the first holy dip.

The event, deeply rooted in India’s spiritual and cultural heritage, has become a monumental gathering of faith, devotion, and harmony.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized the significance of the Maha Kumbh, scheduled from January 13 to February 26, stating it will elevate India’s ancient traditions to global prominence.

He also extended his wishes to devotees.

जहां संस्कृतियों का संगम भी है, श्रद्धा और समरसता का समागम भी है।

'अनेकता में एकता' का संदेश देता महाकुम्भ-2025, प्रयागराज मानवता के कल्याण के साथ ही सनातन से साक्षात्कार करा रहा है।#एकता_का_महाकुम्भ pic.twitter.com/kZt5xtBItW

— Yogi Adityanath (@myogiadityanath) January 13, 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the devotees and celebrated the occasion.

A very special day for crores of people who cherish Bharatiya values and culture!

Maha Kumbh 2025 commences in Prayagraj, bringing together countless people in a sacred confluence of faith, devotion and culture. The Maha Kumbh embodies India’s timeless spiritual heritage and…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 13, 2025

“A very special day for crores of people who cherish Bharatiya values and culture! Maha Kumbh 2025 commences in Prayagraj, bringing together countless people in a sacred confluence of faith, devotion and culture. The Maha Kumbh embodies India’s timeless spiritual heritage and celebrates faith and harmony", he said on X.

Maha Kumbh Mela officer Vijay Kiran Anand reported, “So far, more than 40 lakh people have taken a dip,” reflecting the immense participation in the early days of the festival.

Highlighting the spiritual significance, Ashutosh Varshney, convenor of Prayagraj-based NGO Ram Naam Bank, explained that 'Paush Purnima' marks an important milestone in the Hindu calendar, falling on the 15th day of 'Shukla Paksh' in the month of 'Paush'. This occasion initiates 'Kalpvasa,' a period of intense spiritual practice and devotion observed by pilgrims during the Maha Kumbh Mela.

The city of Prayagraj has transformed into a hub of spirituality and culture, welcoming saints, seers, and devotees from all walks of life. Over 50 lakh pilgrims took a dip at the Sangam on Sunday, a day ahead of Paush Purnima, while 33 lakh visited on Saturday, bringing the total number of devotees over the weekend to more than 85 lakh, according to Director of Information Shishir.

Adding to the cultural festivities, the Ministry of Culture has established 'Kalagram,' a vibrant space celebrating India’s rich artistic and cultural heritage. Several renowned artists, including Kailash Kher, Shankar Mahadevan, Mohit Chauhan, Hans Raj Hans, Hariharan, Kavita Krishnamurthy, and Maithili Thakur, are set to perform throughout the event.

The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 is not just a religious congregation but also a celebration of India’s diverse and timeless heritage, uniting millions in a collective expression of devotion and culture.