Prayagraj, February 12, 2025: The sacred Maghi Purnima snan commenced early Wednesday morning at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, witnessing a massive influx of devotees at the holy Triveni Sangam. So far, over 75 lakh devotees have already taken a dip on the auspicious occasion, which marks the conclusion of the month-long Kalpvas. Authorities anticipate that by the end of the day, over 1.5 crore pilgrims will have participated in the sacred bath, with numbers possibly touching two crores.
Significance of Maghi Purnima and Kalpvas
Maghi Purnima is a significant day in Hindu traditions, marking the culmination of the Kalpvas—a month-long period of penance, fasting, and spiritual cleansing. This year, more than 10 lakh devotees undertook Kalpvas, residing near the Sangam, practicing strict self-discipline, and engaging in prayers and meditation. The ritual bath on Maghi Purnima is believed to bestow spiritual liberation and cleanse devotees of their sins.
Massive Security Arrangements for Crowd Management
In anticipation of the enormous footfall, the Uttar Pradesh administration has enforced a comprehensive security plan to ensure a smooth and safe pilgrimage experience. Advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology is being used for real-time crowd management, ensuring orderly movement at the bathing ghats.
Security measures include the deployment of:
- Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC)
- Paramilitary forces
- Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS)
- Special Task Force (STF)
- National Security Guard (NSG) commandos
The authorities have also implemented stringent traffic regulations to prevent congestion. Kalpvasis have been advised to use only designated parking areas, and the fair zone has been declared a “no-vehicle” zone from 4 AM onwards. From 5 PM on Tuesday, vehicle restrictions extended across the city, with exceptions for emergency and essential services.
Advanced Surveillance and Water Safety Measures
To enhance safety at the ghats, the administration has stationed water police, divers, flood company PAC, and disaster response forces like the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). Surveillance has been intensified with drones and CCTV cameras monitoring the entire fairground to preempt any untoward incidents.
Pilgrims’ Experience and Faith
Pilgrims from various parts of the country and abroad have gathered to take the holy dip, seeking divine blessings and spiritual solace. The Maha Kumbh Mela is renowned for its religious significance, attracting millions of people who believe that bathing at the Triveni Sangam—where the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers meet—grants moksha (liberation from the cycle of rebirth).
With only 14 days remaining for the grand event to conclude, official reports state that over 45 crore people have participated in the sacred baths since the Maha Kumbh commenced on January 13, 2025. The grand event will conclude on February 26 with the final Amrit Snan on the occasion of Mahashivratri.
As the spiritual fervor continues, the administration remains vigilant to ensure a seamless and enriching experience for devotees. The Maghi Purnima Snan stands as a testament to India’s deep-rooted faith and cultural heritage, reinforcing the spiritual significance of Maha Kumbh Mela.
