Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: A spiritual extravaganza begins in Prayagraj

The 12-year gap between Kumbh Melas is linked to Hindu mythology and astronomical factors, including Jupiter’s 12-year orbit around the Sun.

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   Over 60 lakh devotees took a dip in the Sangam during the Shahi Snan on the first day of the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025. Express Photo by Vishal Srivastav)

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   After lakhs of devotees took a dip in Sangam, braving the cold wave on Monday morning, a shower of flower petals – Pushpa Varsha – followed, adding to the festivities in the Mahakumbh 2025. (Express Photo by Vishal Srivastav)

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   An estimated 40 crore people are expected to participate in the Maha Kumbh Mela, which will continue until February 26, 2025. (Express Photo by Vishal Srivastav)

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   Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the event, highlighting its significance in preserving Indian values and culture.(Express Photo by Vishal Srivastav)

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   PM Modi called the Maha Kumbh 2025 a confluence of faith, devotion, and culture, embodying India’s spiritual heritage. (Express Photo by Vishal Srivastav)

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   Around 50 lakh pilgrims and sadhus are expected to stay in camps throughout the event. (Express Photo by Vishal Srivastav)

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   The Maha Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years, attracts millions who bathe at the sacred Triveni Sangam to seek spiritual liberation. (Express Photo by Vishal Srivastav)

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   The 12-year gap between Kumbh Melas is linked to Hindu mythology and astronomical factors, including Jupiter’s 12-year orbit around the Sun. (Express Photo by Vishal Srivastav)

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   The Maha Kumbh Mela is considered the world's largest religious gathering, with participants seeking forgiveness and Moksha.(Express Photo by Vishal Srivastav)

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   A special floating police chowki has been constructed by the Uttar Pradesh police to assist devotees during the festival. (Express Photo by Vishal Srivastav)

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   The Uttar Pradesh government, led by Yogi Adityanath, has initiated 549 projects worth Rs 6,990 crore for infrastructure and sanitation improvements for the event. (Express Photo by Vishal Srivastav)

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   Over 2,300 CCTV cameras were installed across the site and city to manage crowds and ensure safety. (Express Photo by Vishal Srivastav)

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   The Maha Kumbh Mela is expected to boost local trade by Rs 2 lakh crore, positively impacting tourism and employment in Prayagraj. (Express Photo by Vishal Srivastav)

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   The first Kumbh Mela after India’s independence was held in 1954 in Allahabad, remembered for both its massive turnout and a tragic stampede that claimed nearly 800 lives. (Express Photo by Vishal Srivastav)