Millions of devotees flocked to Prayagraj's Triveni Sangam on February 26, 2025, to participate in the last holy dip, known as the Shahi Snan, on the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivratri. This year's Maha Kumbh Mela, which commenced on January 13, has seen staggering participation, with more than 65 crore devotees engaging throughout the event. The final day is especially significant, representing not only the culmination of this massive religious gathering but also the celebration of the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
The Kumbh Mela is rooted deeply in Hindu mythology and is believed to provide liberation, or moksha, to the devotees who partake. On the eve of Maha Shivratri, over 1.4 crore individuals took dips at the Sangam, marking one of the busiest days of the festival. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who has been closely monitoring the arrangements, expressed his warm greetings to the millions who have come to partake, stating his heartfelt wishes during this auspicious occasion.
Prior to the festivities, officials had enacted stringent security and crowd management measures. With the anticipated influx of devotees for the last dip, the city was declared a no-vehicle zone to facilitate smoother movement and prevent overcrowding at the ghats. Rajesh Dwivedi, the SSP of Kumbh Mela, emphasized the importance of maintaining safety among the throngs of individuals, instructing visitors to utilize the closest ghat along their route to minimize traffic buildup. “Devotees are requested to take dips at the nearest ghat to avoid overcrowding,” he said, underlining the strategic implementation of crowd control.
Despite the reverence surrounding the Maha Kumbh, many visitors have reported price gouging for basic necessities like water and snacks. Vendors have charged significantly above the maximum retail price (MRP), selling bottles of water meant to cost ₹20 for ₹25, and packets of chips similarly inflated. Many vendors justified the price increases as necessities imposed by rising costs they face themselves. It reflects broader issues of economic conditions during such large-scale events.
On the organizational front, the Maha Kumbh has operated under close watch from local authorities who deployed additional police personnel throughout the city. Surveillance drones and AI-based cameras were employed for real-time monitoring, ensuring public safety against potential mishaps. The logistical team coordinated with railway authorities to facilitate the transportation demands of the returning crowds once the event concludes. Over 350 special trains have been scheduled to accommodate the mass exodus of devotees following the final holy dip.
With the grand culmination of the Maha Kumbh Mela at Triveni Sangam, the event marks not only the closing of rituals but also cements the deep cultural and religious significance of the gathering. The chants of 'Har Har Mahadev' echoed throughout the area as the last dips were taken, bringing together innumerable believers from various backgrounds and regions. "When faith unites millions, devotion knows no bounds," proclaimed the official Maha Kumbh 2025 social media page, signifying the collective spirit of participation.
The festivity is not without its challenges, with the rising costs reflecting larger trends of inflation during major public gatherings. Authorities have faced scrutiny over whether they will take effective measures to address price increases and vendor conduct going forward. Vendors claim they do not wish to exploit the situation; instead, they argue they are themselves struggling against rising input costs.
Even as Maha Kumbh 2025 nears its conclusion, the turning point rests on the anticipation of continued devotion from millions gathering from across the country and around the world. The predictions of attendance for the closing ceremonies suggest the total may reach around 68 crore, reinforcing the Kumbh's reputation as one of the largest religious gatherings globally. Security measures remain tight as the last devotees make their way to Triveni Sangam to immerse themselves during this sacred time.
The final moments of Maha Kumbh Mela serve as both a celebration of faith and reflection on the challenges faced during such expansive gatherings. Authorities will continue monitoring both the event's success and the well-being of those attending as the last waves of devotees pay homage to their beliefs.