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Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: A spiritual confluence of faith, tradition, and technology

BY JYOTHSNA HEGDE

Freezing waters notwithstanding, nearly 15 million devotees and visitors took a dip in the revered rivers on January 13, 2025, in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, heralding the onset of the Maha Kumbh Mela. This monumental celebration draws millions of pilgrims seeking spiritual purification through ritual bathing at the sacred confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers (Sangam). The Mahakumbh Mela 2025 which commenced on January 13, 2025, with the Paush Purnima Snan, will conclude on February 26, 2025, on MahaShivratri day.

This year’s celebration holds exceptional significance as the Maha or grand Kumbh Mela occurs once every 144 years. Spanning approximately over 4,000 hectares along the riverbank, the festival is anticipated to draw at least 400 million visitors.

Recognized as part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, the Kumbh Mela holds immense cultural and spiritual significance on a global scale.

The Kumbh Mela involves various rituals, with the holy dip being the most significant. Millions of pilgrims participate, believing the sacred bath washes away sins, frees them from the cycle of rebirth, and helps attain Moksha. Alongside the dip, devotees worship on the riverbanks and listen to teachings from sadhus and saints. The Amrit or Shahi Snan, a ceremonial royal bath by saints, is the event’s highlight.

January 14 marked the first Amrit snan. While the Kumbh Mela started on Jan 13, the first of the ritual baths was on the 14th, in which sadhu Akhadaas took the first dip after an elaborate procession to the river. Shri Panchayati Akhara Mahanirvani and Shri Shambhu Panchayati Atal Akhara were the first ones to take the Amrit snan, per PTI. Thirteen Akhadaas are participating in the Maha Kumbh. After the sadhus, or holy men, thousands of devotees took the dip in the Sangam.

Under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Uttar Pradesh Government is undertaking extensive preparations to ensure Mahakumbh 2025 is a grand, secure, and spiritually enriching event. Expected to host over 40 crore devotees from across the globe, this 45-day festival, from January 13 to February 26 will showcase India’s rich cultural heritage and legacy.

This year the festival is leveraging modern technology to elevate the experience for all participants. From advanced security systems to digital land allocations and immersive virtual reality experiences, Maha Kumbh 2025 is transforming how devotees engage with their faith and the event’s vibrant cultural legacy. With extensive preparations encompassing infrastructure, safety, and digital innovations, the Maha Kumbh is set to exemplify the seamless integration of tradition and technology.

Temporary City Setup: Mahakumbh Nagar is being transformed into a temporary city with thousands of tents and shelters, including super deluxe accommodations like the IRCTC’s “Mahakumbh Gram” luxury tent city which offers deluxe tents and villas with modern amenities. A total of 800 multi-language signages for navigation and Mobile toilets and robust waste management systems for public utility have been set up.

Security Arrangements includeAI-powered crowd density monitoring with over 340 experts at key locations, Thousands of CCTV cameras and drones for aerial surveillance, Facial recognition technology at entry points for enhanced safety, Deployment of four Articulating Water Towers (AWTs) capable of tackling fires up to 35 meters high, 30 meters wide, underwater drones capable of diving up to 100 meters will provide round-the-clock surveillance at the Sangam area, Deployment of State-of-the-art Multi-Disaster Response vehicle to enhance safety and disaster readiness and Police Deployment of over 50,000 personnel  including paramilitary forces

Cyber Security: To keep the vast number of devotees well-informed, the Uttar Pradesh government is utilizing a wide range of platforms, including print, digital, and social media. Cybersecurity experts are actively monitoring online threats and investigating groups misusing platforms like AI, Facebook, X, and Instagram. Additionally, a mobile cyber team has been deployed to conduct extensive public awareness campaigns.

Key security features include Deployment of 56 dedicated cyber warriors and experts for cyber patrolling, Establishment of a Maha Kumbh cyber police station to counter cyber threats like fraudulent websites, social media scams, and fake links. 40 Variable Messaging Displays (VMDs) in both the fair area and the commissionerates for raising awareness about cyber threats and A dedicated helpline number, 1920, and promotion of verified government websites.

Health Services provided include Temporary hospitals equipped with surgical and diagnostic facilities, Deployment of “Bhishma Cube,” capable of treating up to 200 people simultaneously, A “Netra Kumbh” camp that aims to conduct eye tests for over 5 lakh pilgrims and distribute more than 3 lakh eyeglasses, towards setting a Guinness World Record, An eye donation camp, and dedicated health camps for elderly pilgrims and children

Towards Sustainability, 3 temporary sewage treatment plants (STPs) are installed to ensure clean water in the Ganga and Yamuna rivers and Eco-Friendly solar power for lighting, promotion of reusable materials, and a ban on single-use plastics

Cultural Showcases include a Uttar Pradesh Pavilion, spanning 5 acres near Nagavasuki Temple, that showcases UP’s tourism circuits (e.g., Ramayana Circuit, Krishna-Braj Circuit, Buddhist Circuit, Bundelkhand Circuit) and features a handicrafts market along with cultural programs and performances of classical music, dance, and exhibitions about India’s spiritual heritage.

Immersive Digital Experiences include 360-Degree Virtual Reality stalls with videos shows of major events such as Peshwai (Grand procession of Akhadas), auspicious bathing days (snaan), Ganga aarti, and multiple special footage from this grand festival, Drone Show of a fleet of 2,000 drones narrating the tales of Prayag Mahatmyam and Samudra Manthan,

Infrastructure and Land Digitalization: GIS-based maps with essential public utilities are available on Google Maps for seamless navigation. These include emergency services, police stations, checkpoints, command and control centers, hospitals, parking areas, food courts, vending zones, toilets, pontoon bridges, roads, etc.

Enhanced devotee security arrangements include AI Powered Cameras, Underwater drones, and Remote-controlled life buoys

Lost and Found Services have been implemented through high-tech Lost and Found registration centers in association with the state police department.

Online stay booking will be open from January 10 to February 28. Reservations can be made easily through the IRCTC website, Maha Kumbh mobile application, Make My Trip and Go IBIBO. For the safety and comfort of the guests, the Tent City will provide first aid services and will be under constant surveillance with CCTV cameras.

Extending a Global Outreach, special provisions have been made for international visitors with multilingual signages and cultural programs showcasing India’s diversity.

For more details, please visit https://kumbh.gov.in/ and https://pib.gov.in/

The Origins

The cosmic significance of the Kumbh Mela is rooted in the Hindu mythology of Samudra Manthan, where gods and demons churned the cosmic ocean to obtain the nectar of immortality (amrita). During the process, the pot (Kumbh) containing the nectar spilled, with drops falling at four sacred locations — Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain, giving rise to the Kumbh Mela at each of these sites.

The Mela symbolizes humanity’s eternal pursuit of divinity and spiritual awakening. The pot represents the container of consciousness holding divine wisdom, and bathing in these holy rivers is believed to purify the soul, bringing one closer to liberation (moksha). The churning reflects the inner struggles in the journey of spiritual growth.

Features of the Mela

The highlight of the Maha Kumbh Mela is the Amrit / Shahi Snan, or Royal Bath, performed by saints and prominent spiritual leaders

Ascetics, saints, sadhus, sadhvis, kalpvasis, pilgrims from all walks of life and tourists partake in several ceremonies during the Kumbh Mela. Some of highlights include the traditional procession of Akharas called ‘Peshwai’ on elephant backs, horses and chariots, the shining swords and rituals of Naga Sadhus during ‘Amrit Snaan’, and many other cultural activities.

Sankirtan and Bhajans – collective singing of hymns and devotional melodies, Spiritual discourses, Yoga and Meditation form the crux of the iconic celebration.

Deep Daan is a sacred ritual performed during the Kumbh Mela, where countless lit oil lamps are set afloat on the Triveni Sangam—the mystical confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers.

‘Prayagraj Panchkoshi Parikrama’, with parikrama (circumambulation), a sacred practice, integral to the Kumbh for generations, culminates with visits to the Shri Madhava temples.

Akharas

Akharas can be traced back to the 8th century, established by Adi Shankaracharya to unite ascetics and protect Sanatan Dharma. have become integral to the Kumbh Mela. “Akharas” in the Kumbh Mela are essentially spiritual sects, primarily attributed to Adi Shankaracharya, which play a central role in organizing the festival. The sect, including the Naga sadhus, is known as the Akhara Matha.

Akharas” refer to Hindu monastic orders, primarily associated with the Kumbh Mela, believed to have been established by Adi Shankaracharya, and are categorized into three main groups: Shaiva Akharas (worshipping Shiva), Vaishnava Akharas (worshipping Vishnu), and Udasin Akhara, which is linked to the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev, the first Sikh Guru; essentially, these orders play a crucial role in organizing the Kumbh Mela festivities and maintaining Hindu traditions. 

The akharas in existence include Juna Akhara, Niranjani, Atal, Mahanirvani, Bada Udasin, Naya, Nirmohi Ani, Digamber Ani, Nirvani Ani, Nirmala, Panchagni, Aavahan, and Panchayti Akhara.

The Kumbh Mela rituals include Aarti, the offering of sacred flames to the deities at the Yamuna, Ganga, and Triveni Sangam riverbanks. Another significant ritual is the Amrit Snan, where devotees believe a dip in the Triveni Sangam absolves sins, liberates ancestors from the cycle of rebirth, and leads to Moksha (salvation).

Prominent participants in the Amrit Snan include Naga Sadhus, saints, seers, and members of the akharas. The three Amrit Snan dates for this Kumbh Mela are January 14, January 29, and February 3.

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Important Bathing Dates 

  • January 13, 2025: Paush Purnima (Opening Day)
  • January 14, 2025: Makar Sankranti (Amrit Snan)
  • January 29, 2025: Mauni Amavasya (Amrit Snan)
  • February 3, 2025: Basant Panchami (Amrit Snan)
  • February 12, 2025: Maghi Purnima Snan
  • February 26, 2025: Mahashivratri Snan

Another ritual steeped in ancient scriptures like the Brahma Purana and Padma Purana, the Kalpavas, is a sacred observance, a period of penance, and an opportunity to transcend the mundane, believed to represent one day in the life of Lord Brahma, known as a “Kalpa.” A Kalpavasi, as explained in the Padma Purana, is required to observe 21 rules through mind, speech and action, reads the UP government’s official website for the Kumbh Mela. Incidentally, Steve Jobs’ widow Laurene Powell Jobs also partook in this ritual while she was in Prayagraj this year.

Four kinds of Kumbh Mela include Kumbh Mela: celebrated every three years, by rotation at the four sacred sites of Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik and Ujjain; Ardh Kumbh Mela:  ‘Ardh’ or half Kumbh occurs every six years at Haridwar and Prayagraj; Purna Kumbh Mela: This is the complete Kumbh Mela, celebrated every 12 years, at the four sacred sites. It is believed that the 12 year-period is a marker of planet Jupiter’s alignment with other constellations; and the Mahakumbh Mela (2025): This is celebrated every 144 years, after the completion of 12 ‘Purna Kumbh Melas’, at Prayagraj.

Astronomical connections

Studies indicate that planetary alignments can affect Earth’s electromagnetic fields, potentially influencing biological systems. Human bodies, emitting their own electromagnetic forces, may interact with these fields, which could explain why many participants experience a sense of peace and well-being during the festival.

The timing of the Kumbh Mela is determined by specific planetary alignments, with Jupiter playing a key role; specifically, when Jupiter (Guru) enters Aquarius (Kumbha). The festival takes place when Jupiter aligns with the Sun and Moon, intensifying Earth’s electromagnetic fields. Notably, Jupiter reached the opposition on December 7, 2024, shining prominently in the night sky and remaining visible through January 2025.

Scientific aspects

One of the key rituals of the Kumbh Mela is bathing in the sacred rivers. While steeped in spiritual symbolism and traditions, the act is also rooted in science. Rivers like the Ganga possess unique qualities, with studies revealing the presence of bacteriophages—viruses that eliminate harmful bacteria—making its waters naturally self-purifying. This dual cleansing is both spiritual and physical.

Immersing in water, particularly flowing rivers, also offers therapeutic benefits. Similar to modern hydrotherapy, this ancient practice harnesses water’s healing properties. Cold water immersion has been shown to enhance circulation, reduce inflammation, and release endorphins, the body’s natural mood-boosting chemicals.

The Kumbh Mela sites bear testament to ancient India’s profound understanding of geography and geomagnetic forces. These sites, typically situated at river confluences, are thought to possess powerful geomagnetic energy fields that promote spiritual growth. Ancient sages recognized these areas as ideal for tapping into Earth’s energy systems, guiding both the timing and the selection of locations for this revered festival.

Future of the Kumbh Mela:

Will this ancient tradition thin out with time? “Let us look at the past and present to portend our future. The world is progressively turning to eastern traditions,” says Atlanta’s Dr. Bhagirath Majmudar, an Emeritus Professor of Pathology and Obstetrics-Gynecology at Emory University, Atlanta, a Sanskrit Visharada and Jagannath scholar, and a Hindu priest. The Kumbh Mela, he observes, far from fading with time, reflects the enduring relevance of ancient traditions as the world increasingly embraces Eastern philosophies. International Yoga Day, the observance of Earth Day, and a growing respect for nature signify a shift toward reverence for natural elements akin to the Rigvedic worship of Water, Sky, Fire, Earth, and Air. Environmental challenges—raging waters, wildfires, unsafe skies, and the Earth’s upheavals—are teaching humanity the importance of nurturing nature rather than exploiting it.

“This is very ancient festival and has continued in spite of political turmoil in India at different periods of its history,” notes Dr GNR Tripathi, physicist and scholar and active emeritus at the University of Notre Dame. “I see social integration of the society during Kumbh, particularly Hindus, who are severely fragmented for multiple reasons, such as language, regions, sects, cultures, castes etc, but that is not the guiding factor for individuals to go there. They are mostly guided by the desire of self-purification and austerity. Those who are not believers in Kumbh also benefit from their supporting role in catering towards the basic needs of such a huge gathering,” he added.

The Maha Kumbh symbolizes humanity’s shared desire to transcend material limits and reconnect with the eternal. This spiritual gathering promotes individual purification, collective healing, and unity while highlighting the need for environmental stewardship. In a divided world, its message of harmony, diversity, and interconnectedness remains deeply relevant, inspiring efforts toward enlightenment, peace, and shared purpose. By honoring its heritage and values, the Maha Kumbh encourages a celebration of life’s sacredness and the limitless potential of the human spirit.

Cover photo credit: By Rpsaroj – Own work, CC0, Wikipedia

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