PRAYAGRAJ: The Maha Kumbh Mela of 2025 has achieved remarkable success, eclipsing attendance expectations as the number of devotees surpassed the momentous 40 crore mark. Over the course of the festival, which started on January 13 and is set to conclude on February 26, the influx of pilgrims has continued to grow, with projections estimating attendance may even reach 50 crores this year.
On February 6, it was reported by officials overseeing the Kumbh Mela, the pilgrimage site at Triveni Sangam, saw over 39.74 crore attendees within just 25 days. The anticipated high volume was evident on special days, like Mauni Amavasya, when around 8 crore people participated, coupled with significant crowds on other auspicious bathing days, generating intense enthusiasm and fervor.
With nearly three weeks left until the festival closes, volunteers and organizers remain on their toes to manage the colossal number of visitors, ensuring everyone enjoys their sacred time at the Mela without significant hitches. According to Vijay Kiran Anand, the District Magistrate for Maha Kumbh, "The entire team under the direction of the state government is working toward improving the pilgrim experience..."
This year’s Kumbh has attracted not only domestic pilgrims but also international celebrities, adding more star power to the event. Bollywood actress Esha Gupta graced the festival on February 6, taking to social media to share her experience: "Divy Kumbh, Bhavy Kumbh #mahakumbh2025," she wrote, showcasing her gratitude after taking the holy dip at Triveni Sangam.
Also among the high-profile figures was Chris Martin, the lead singer of Coldplay, who was spotted participating in the rituals during his trip to India for performances. The presence of such figures brings heightened attention to the cultural and religious significance of the Kumbh Mela.
Political figures, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and several other ministers have visited the Kumbh, participating in various ceremonies and extending their support to the arrangements set for pilgrims. Chief Minister Adityanath commended the comprehensive planning which has helped accommodate the large crowds with measures addressing crowd control and sanitation.
The sheer scale of the event has compelled logistical management of epic proportions. The Prayagraj Airport has witnessed at least 372 scheduled and chartered flights since the Mela's commencement, far exceeding the typical volume for the small airport, which usually averages only five flights per day. Reports indicated maximum daily landings peaked at 22 on January 28, February 1, and February 6. Flights from Delhi represented the largest segment of arrivals, with 129 flights, followed by those from Mumbai and Bengaluru.
While hospitality is booming, so too are local businesses, as the influx of devotees has revitalized the economy around Prayagraj. Local vendors selling religious paraphernalia, food, and transportation services have reported substantial profits, much to the delight of residents. Aman Jaiswal, who owns a sweet shop, remarked, "When the govt claimed 40 crore people would be visiting Maha Kumbh, we took it as exaggerated, but seeing the unprecedented number of headcounts, we are astonished!"
Despite challenges, including significant traffic snarls caused by the influx of visitors, the local populace has shown commendable hospitality. Residents have opened their homes to guests, and locals can be seen guiding pilgrims through the Mela, embodying the spirit of community so closely associated with Kumbh Mela.
Beyond bathing rituals, the festival has cultural aspects like traditional feasts held by various akharas. Major sects like the Bairagi and Naga Sadhus have participated enthusiastically. The Juna Akhara has scheduled gatherings with traditional dish meals, which, following rituals, will commence their journeys back to their respective abodes.
The departure of the akharas marks the end of the holy period for ascetics, yet for devotees, there's still much to engage with as the remaining holy dips—such as the ones on Maghi Purnima and Mahashivratri—continue to draw crowds, reinforcing their faith and devotion to the sacred waters.
With all factors combined, from celebrity appearances to massive attendance and the boosting morale of local vendors, the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most prominent gatherings combining spirituality, culture, and economic revitalization any religious festival has witnessed, especially with just three weeks still to go.