Friday, February 7, 2025

Mahakumbh Mela 2025: Day 3 Sees 3.5 Crore Devotees in Action

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Massive Devotee Participation in Amrit Snan
On the first day of the sacred ‘Amrit Snan’, more than 3.5 crore pilgrims and spiritual leaders immersed themselves in the holy waters of the Sangam, as announced by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The ritual bath, held at the confluence of the rivers, marked the beginning of an auspicious celebration steeped in tradition.

A Chilly Morning at Triveni Sangam
As Day 3 dawned, thousands of devotees gathered at the ghats of Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, undeterred by the brisk morning cold. The air resonated with chants like “Har Har Mahadev”, “Jai Shri Ram”, and “Jai Ganga Maiyya”, reflecting the deep religious fervor of the participants. Many devotees, like 62-year-old Nibar Chaudhary from Basti, expressed renewed vigor after taking the holy dip, accompanied by fellow pilgrims ensuring his safe passage.

Enhanced Security and Operational Measures
The security apparatus has been significantly strengthened in anticipation of a staggering 50 crore visitors over the 45-day festival span—including over 20 lakh international travelers. Uttar Pradesh police have stationed thousands of officers and deployed 11 tethered drones alongside advanced counter-drone systems to manage the vast crowds. Additionally, specialized units like the ATS para commandos are on standby, and water security has been beefed up to cater to the swelling numbers, ensuring safety and order throughout the event.

Mythological Legacy and Cultural Significance
Rooted in ancient lore and scriptures such as the Mahabharata and Puranas, the Kumbh Mela traces its origins to the mythical Samudra Manthan—the great churning of the ocean. According to legend, drops of the nectar of immortality landed at four sacred sites, including Prayagraj, instilling in the event a timeless quest for spiritual liberation, penance, and redemption.

Notable Attendees and Spiritual Observances
Among the high-profile visitors this year is Laurene Powell, the widow of Steve Jobs, who has embarked on a month-long period of penance called Kalpvas. Adorned in saffron, Powell’s spiritual journey includes her participation in the Mauni Amavasya ritual scheduled for January 29, reinforcing the global appeal and diverse attendance at this ancient festival.

Traffic Management and Public Disruptions
The sheer volume of devotees has impacted local infrastructure; all schools for grades 1 to 8 in Prayagraj have been temporarily closed by order of the District Magistrate to ease the traffic congestion. This measure was taken following the massive turnout on the inaugural day of Amrit Snan.

Aerial Celebrations and Commemorative Gestures
In a display of grandeur, the conclusion of Tuesday’s Amrit Snan was celebrated from the skies, as helicopters dispersed rose petals over the bathing pilgrims, symbolically blessing the commencement of the festivities.

Special Flight Schedules for Enhanced Connectivity
Airlines have ramped up flight services between the national capital and Prayagraj to accommodate the influx of visitors from across India and abroad. SpiceJet has introduced special daytime flights, and a recent statement from an airline confirmed operations running from January 25 to February 28. This initiative aims to facilitate seamless travel and connect pilgrims with various domestic and international destinations.

The Mahakumbh Mela 2025 continues to exemplify a rare blend of ancient ritual and modern logistics, drawing millions into a collective journey of faith, unity, and devotion. With high-level coordination among government bodies and a robust security framework, this grand event not only preserves a millennia-old tradition but also showcases the operational prowess needed to manage one of the world’s largest religious gatherings.

Source: The Indian Express

Ankit C
Ankit C
Ankit is an avid traveler, tech-savvy individual, and dedicated news enthusiast who explores new places, embraces technology, and stays informed.

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