* Government implemented a seven-tier security plan*
by Ashis Sinha
Prayagraj: The world’s largest spiritual gathering, the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, officially began on Monday in Prayagraj, marking the start of a month-long celebration of faith and culture. Over 15 million (1.5 cr) devotees and pilgrims gathered at the sacred Triveni Sangam, where the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers converge, to take the holy dip.
The event saw flower petals showered from helicopters, adding to the grandeur of the occasion. Participants from across the globe have assembled to join in the ritual, which will culminate on February 26th, coinciding with Mahashivaratri.
This year’s Maha Kumbh holds special significance due to a rare celestial alignment that occurs once every 144 years, making it even more auspicious for the millions in attendance.
Beyond its religious importance, the Maha Kumbh is a celebration of India’s ancient traditions and a remarkable cultural confluence. It brings together spiritual streams from seven Akharas of the Shaivite tradition and three each from the Vaishnavite and Udasin sects, showcasing the unity in diversity that defines the event.
More than seven lakh Kalpvasis are taking part in a month-long spiritual retreat, with prayers, yajnas, and other events reflecting the spirit of peace and harmony.
To ensure the safety and smooth functioning of the event, the government has implemented a seven-tier security plan.
Over 50,000 police personnel have been deployed, and the fair area is being monitored by nearly 2800 CCTV and AI-enabled cameras. Senior officials, including ADG Police Bhanu Bhaskar and DIG Rajesh Dwivedi, visited the site to oversee security measures. Additionally, 2,000 Ganga Sevadoots are ensuring cleanliness at the rivers and ghats.
