The Maha Kumbh 2025 has officially begun with the Paush Poornima, marking the first ‘snan’ (holy dip) of the event at Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj on Monday, January 13. Devotees have gathered in large numbers at the Kumbh Mela to take part in this sacred ritual.
The Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings globally, draws millions of pilgrims every year. The event features numerous rituals and cultural activities, with the holy bath being a key highlight. It is believed that taking the sacred dip during the event cleanses sins and offers spiritual benefits.
Held once every 12 years, the Maha Kumbh Mela is expected to host around 45 crore people over the next 45 days. Devotees from around the world are gathering at the Triveni Sangam, the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers in Prayagraj to take a holy dip. Laurene Powell Jobs, the wife of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, has also arrived to participate in the event.
Mega Event, Mega Preparations
Police were seen on horseback managing crowds and patrolling the area during the Maha Kumbh. An official stated that over 10,000 personnel from local police stations and paramilitary forces have been deployed for the event.
To ensure smooth management, authorities have deployed 40,000 security personnel for crowd control. The event will be monitored with 2,751 CCTV cameras, including 328 AI-enabled cameras, and 20 high-tech drones for round-the-clock surveillance. Additionally, 1.5 lakh tents will be set up to accommodate visitors, while 4.5 lakh electric connections and 3.5 lakh domestic LPG cylinders are expected, along with 25,000 commercial LPG cylinders to support the massive gathering.
To ensure comprehensive surveillance during the Maha Kumbh Mela, underwater drones capable of diving up to 100 meters have been deployed across the city, particularly in the Sangam area, for round-the-clock monitoring.
Tethered drones, with the ability to reach heights of 120 meters, will provide aerial views to detect crowd surges or identify areas in need of medical or security intervention. Additionally, 2,700 cameras with AI capabilities will offer real-time monitoring, while facial recognition technology will be utilized at entry points for enhanced security. A team of 56 cyber warriors will also be stationed to track and counter any online threats.
Kumbh Sah’AI’yak: Your Digital Guide To Maha Kumbh 2025
The Uttar Pradesh government has introduced the Kumbh Sah’AI’yak chatbot, a generative AI tool designed to serve as a digital companion for the millions of devotees attending Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj. The chatbot provides essential information about the event, including its history, accommodation options, travel packages, and other facilities. Available in 11 languages, Kumbh Sah’AI’yak can be accessed via WhatsApp, the official Maha Kumbh website, and the event app.
Helicopter Ride Provides Aerial View Of Maha Kumbh For Rs 1,296
A seven to eight-minute helicopter ride offering an aerial view of the Maha Kumbh Mela has emerged as one of the key attractions of the 45-day event. Visitors can book the ride online through www.upstdc.co.in, with bookings facilitated by Pawan Hans, a Government of India enterprise. The ride, originally priced at Rs 3,000, is now available for Rs 1,296 per person, offering an affordable way to experience the grand scale of the religious gathering from the sky.
Maha Kumbh 2025 Expected To Generate Up To Rs 2 Lakh Crore
Maha Kumbh 2025 is projected to generate up to Rs 2 lakh crore in economic growth for Uttar Pradesh. Estimates suggest that if each of the 40 crore visitors spends an average of Rs 5,000, the event could contribute Rs 2 lakh crore to the economy.
