Page 15 - Maha Kumbh Mela

Travel tips for first-time travelers to Maha Kumbh 2025, know all details

Maha Kumbh is held in Prayagraj every 12 years. This year, it will occur from Jan 13 to Feb 26. If you also want to visit there, then scroll down to know the complete travel guide

Maha Kumbh: AI cameras, RFID wristbands to be used for pilgrims headcount

Artificial intelligence-enabled cameras, RFID wristbands and mobile app tracking are among the methods that will be used to track headcount of the pilgrims attending the Maha Kumbh in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj next month. The mega-religious event, which is held every 12 years, will be held in Prayagraj from January 13 and will continue for 45 days. Sharing details of the arrangements being made for the event, Uttar Pradesh Minister Suresh Khanna said the headcount of pilgrims attending the Maha Kumbh will be efficiently managed using advanced technology. "The first method is attribute based search, where tracking will be conducted using person attribute search cameras. The second method involves RFID wristbands, which will be provided to the pilgrims. Through these wristbands, entry and exit times will be tracked using RFID readers," Khanna said at a roadshow here. "The third method is mobile app tracking, where with the consent of pilgrims, their location will be tracked through G

160K tents, 150K toilets: UP administration readies for grand Maha Kumbh

As 2024 draws to a close, the entire state machinery in Uttar Pradesh has converged upon Sangam, the sacred confluence of Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati river in Prayagraj, racing against time to finalise the preparations for the Maha Kumbh beginning January 13. For the past two months, an army of workers has been diligently channeling the rivers, widening roads, and leveling the ghats to transform the region in anticipation of one of the largest religious events in the world. Speaking during his monthly 'Mann ki Baat' programme on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the mega event it as the "Maha Kumbh of unity", as he urged people to return from the grand congregation with the resolve to banish hate and division from the society. "Maha Kumbh ka sandesh, ek ho pura desh (Message from Maha Kumbh -- entire country should unite), the prime minister said, adding that Maha Kumbh's speciality lies not just in its vastness, but also in its diversity. Held every 12 .

Robust 7-tier security arrangement established for Maha Kumbh: UP govt

A seven-tier security circle has been established to ensure the safety of more than 40 crore people expected to visit Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh, the Uttar Pradesh government has said. The local authorities have set up temporary police stations and checkpoints in both urban and rural areas, as well as near railway stations, bus terminals, airports, and other key routes. The security will be further bolstered by the deployment of the Provincial Armed Constabulary, National Disaster Response Force, Central Armed Police Forces, BDD, and AS Check teams. Units will be kept in reserve for the city and rural areas, the UP government said in a statement on Sunday. Prayagraj Police Commissioner Tarun Gaba said 13 temporary police stations and 23 checkpoints are being established for a reinforced security, which will take the number of stations up from 44 to 57. Around 10,000 police personnel will be stationed across urban and rural areas of Prayagraj. The Prayagraj Police Commissionerat

UP CM invites Prez Murmu, VP Dhankhar, other dignitaries for Mahakumbh 2025

Ahead of the Maha Kumbh, CM Yogi and his ministers are visiting different states and inviting dignitaries and common people for the Maha Kumbh

MP Police team visits Prayagraj to study Maha Kumbh security preparations

A Madhya Pradesh Police delegation undertook a two-day visit to Prayagraj to study its Uttar Pradesh counterparts' security and crowd control measures for the Maha Kumbh as part of its preparations for the 2028 Kumbh in Ujjain. A delegation of senior Madhya Pradesh Police officials held meetings with their counterparts in Uttar Pradesh to gain insight into various aspects of the security arrangements, including the use of AI, mechanisms to counter cybercrime, and crowd management systems. The delegation, which arrived on Friday, also toured key locations in the Kumbh Mela area to observe and understand the preparations at the ground level. Tarun Kaushik, a deputy inspector general in the Madhya Pradesh Police's Anti-Terror Squad (ATS), praised the Uttar Pradesh Police model and said it should be adopted by forces in other states. The Madhya Pradesh Police will coordinate with the Uttar Pradesh Police during the 2028 Kumbh in Ujjain, he said. Kaushik also praised the Uttar Pradesh

Around 25 mn devotees likely to visit Ayodhya after Maha Kumbh 2025

Authorities in Ayodhya are preparing for an influx of devotees during January and February, as many people visiting the Maha Kumbh-2025 in Prayagraj are also likely to come to the temple town to seek blessings of Ram Lalla. According to the Ayodhya Municipal Corporation, around 2.5 crore devotees are likely to visit the town from January 13 to February 12. Authorities of the civic body are also expecting a footfall of about three to five lakh devotees in the temple town on the New Year's Day. "We are expecting that around 10 per cent of devotees visiting the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj will come to Ayodhya to have a glimpse of Lord Ram. "As the Maha Kumbh is likely to witness 25 crore people, so we believe that 2.5 crore to 3 crore devotees will be visiting Ayodhya during the period from Paush Poornima (January 13, 2025) to Maghi Poornima (February 12)," Ayodhya Mayor Girish Pati Tripathi told PTI on Sunday. Currently, 1.5 lakh to 2 lakh people are turning up in Ayodhya daily, Tripath

UP govt to deploy underwater drones, multilingual signages at Maha Kumbh

In a first, "underwater drones" capable of diving up to 100 meters will be deployed during the upcoming Maha Kumbh to provide round-the-clock surveillance at Sangam area in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj, the Culture Ministry said on Sunday. Besides, renovation of 92 roads and construction of 30 pontoon bridges and installation of 800 multilingual signages are being undertaken there to facilitate the pilgrims and other visitors showcasing India's culture and diversity. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, the Uttar Pradesh government is making "extensive preparations to ensure that Mahakumbh 2025 in Prayagraj is a grand, safe and spiritually enriching event", the ministry said. 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 spiritual traditions. The Culture Ministry shared details on the preparations underway and the civic amenities and security arrangements t

Let us eliminate division, hatred as we take part in Mahakumbh: PM Modi

Mahakumbh held once every 12 years, is scheduled to begin on January 13 and conclude on February 26, 2025, in Prayagraj

Drones to secure Maha Kumbh 2025: From 100m underwater to 120m in air

The upcoming Maha Kumbh will feature unprecedented security measures with the deployment of drones capable of monitoring 100 metres underwater and 120 metres above ground, officials said. More than 45 crore pilgrims are expected to participate in the grand gathering. In a first for Uttar Pradesh, underwater drones will be deployed in the Sangam area while tethered drones will make a debut in the skies during one of the largest religious congregations on the planet between January 13 and February 26, 2025. The anti-drone system, first deployed during the consecration ceremony at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya this year, will also be deployed during the Maha Kumbh. UP government earlier last week said a detailed security apparatus has been put in place to ensure the safety of every individual during the Sangam Snan (bathing at the confluence). The underwater drones, expected to provide round-the-clock surveillance, can function effectively in low-light conditions. With the ability to op

Akhada Parishad condemns Pannu's Maha Kumbh threat as divisive tactic

The Akhada Parishad hit out at Sikh separatist leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannu for trying to instigate division between communities after he allegedly issued a threat to target the Maha Kumbh in a video. Following the death of three Khalistani Zindabad Force militants in an encounter with the UP and Punjab police in Pilibhit on Monday, a video threatening to disrupt the key bathing dates of the Magh Mela on -- January 14 (Makar Sankranti), January 29 (Mauni Amavasya), and February 3 (Basant Panchami) -- surfaced on social media, with the voice in the video being attributed to Khalistan supporter Pannu. Pannu is the chief of banned outfit Sikhs For Justice and has been designated a terrorist by the Indian government. Addressing the media in Mahakumbh Nagar, Mahant Ravindra Puri, the president of the Akhil Bharatiya Akhada Parishad, said, "If this person named Pannu dares to enter our Maha Kumbh, he will be beaten and driven out. We have seen hundreds of such lunatics." "This is the Ma

UP govt makes special arrangements for dignitaries visiting Maha Kumbh 2025

As Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 is set to witness a massive influx of pilgrims, tourists, VIP and VVIP dignitaries from across the globe, the Prayagraj Mela Authority has made extensive preparations, including accommodation and protocol arrangements, to ensure a seamless experience, officials said here on Wednesday. The grand event will span 45 days, from Paush Purnima on January 13 to Mahashivratri on February 26. It will feature special measures for dignitaries. A 247 control room has been established, with dedicated officers and personnel. For protocol management, the government has deployed three additional district magistrates (ADMs), as many sub-district magistrates (SDMs) and naib tehsildars, and four revenue officials, they said. Deputy collector-level officers will serve as sector magistrates across 25 sectors to oversee arrangements. These efforts aim to provide a smooth and enriching experience for all dignitaries attending this iconic event. To ensure seamless protocol ...

Akhilesh questions BJP govt's preparedness for Mahakumbh, offers help

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Wednesday questioned the Uttar Pradesh government's preparedness for the upcoming Mahakumbh and accused it of mismanagement. In a social media post, the opposition leader flagged several issues regarding security arrangements, local concerns and overall administration in Prayagraj, urging the government to take immediate corrective action. "This is the truth of preparations for 'Prayagraj Mahakumbh 2025' under the BJP government! At least the work of the police department should have been completed long ago because the management of the security circle does not wait for the last day," he said on X. The former chief minister of the state also drew attention to the alleged delay in addressing the needs of local residents and the fair area, stating that people in Prayagraj were questioning the government's priorities. "The aggrieved people of Prayagraj are asking that the BJP government was very prompt in removing the statue of 'Mahadani' Empero

Man threatens terror attack during Mahakumbh in UP; case lodged, probe on

The social media clip purportedly features a man making inflammatory remarks against Hinduism and political figures while threatening acts of terror during key dates of the upcoming Maha Kumbh

UP govt makes special arrangements for insect-free Maha Kumbh Mela

The Uttar Pradesh health department has made special arrangements to provide an insect-free experience during the Maha Kumbh. Officials on Sunday said an innovative system had been introduced that would deploy automatic mist blowers in the Maha Kumbh area. These blowers are capable of eradicating mosquitoes and flies within 30 minutes of receiving a call. The system ensures a swift response and a hygienic environment for all attendees, they said. Significant efforts are being made to maintain a clean and insect-free environment in the akharas and the expansive tent city, they added. A total of 110 state-of-the-art mist blowers and 107 mini foggers are being deployed across the site. These devices are expected to enhance the devotees' overall experience and ensure a healthy environment throughout the grand gathering, the officials said. According to Dr VP Singh, nodal joint director (vector control) for the Maha Kumbh, insecticide spraying would be carried out across the entire ve

UP to surpass 1 bn tourist visits, generating Rs 3 trn revenue: Minister

Uttar Pradesh Jal Shakti and Namami Gange Minister Swatantra Dev Singh said on Wednesday that the state is on track to surpass one billion tourist visits, generating Rs 3 lakh crore in economic activity. Speaking at the foundation stone-laying ceremony of a 180-foot-tall Shiva temple being constructed by the Ram Janki Temple Trust, Singh credited this surge in tourism to the development of corridors across various religious sites and the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. "So far, 60 crore tourists have visited the state due to corridor development. Additionally, we estimate around 45 crore visitors for Prayagraj's Maha Kumbh. With these numbers, Uttar Pradesh will surpass one billion tourists," Singh said. The minister highlighted the shift in public sentiment towards religion and safety in the state. "After Prime Minister Modi and Chief Minister Yogi took charge, people's faith in the Sanatan Dharma has grown immensely. There is also a

No provision of free travel for Maha Kumbh Mela: Railways ministry

The Ministry of Railways on Wednesday dismissed as "baseless" claims that passengers would be allowed to travel free of cost during the Maha Kumbh Mela, and said no such provision exists. "It has come to the attention of Indian Railways that certain media outlets are circulating reports claiming that passengers will be allowed to travel free of cost during the Maha Kumbh Mela," it said in a statement. "Indian Railways categorically denies these reports, as they are entirely baseless and misleading," the statement said. "Travelling without a valid ticket is strictly prohibited under the rules and regulations of Indian Railways and constitutes a punishable offense. There are no provisions for free travel during Maha Kumbh Mela or any other occasion," the ministry added. It added that the Indian Railways was committed to ensuring seamless travel for passengers during the Maha Kumbh. "Adequate arrangements are being made, including the establishment of special holding areas, additiona

Tethered drones deployed for aerial surveillance of Maha Kumbh 2025

Tethered drones have been deployed in the Maha Kumbh area to provide comprehensive aerial surveillance ahead of next year's event, officials said on Tuesday. The high-tech device capable of capturing high-resolution images, videos, and sensor data leaves no corner of Mahakumbh Nagar unmonitored, they said. Held every 12 years, the Maha Kumbh is scheduled to take place in Prayagraj from January 14 to February 26. The state-of-the-art system is a major step towards safeguarding the devotees, officials said, adding that Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Rajesh Dwivedi has appointed an expert team to oversee its operation. Calling it a unique and advanced security tool, Dwivedi highlighted its ability to switch to alert mode within seconds. "The tethered drone's secure data transmission ensures that it captures every detail, big or small, from above, making it a cornerstone of the hi-tech security measures in place," the officer said, adding that it will act as an "third eye" of t

Maha Kumbh 2025 to offer unique digital experience with AI chatbot

The Maha Kumbh-2025 will offer a unique digital experience to people across the globe, allowing them to get a memorable token of the event. The Maha Kumbh-2025 will be held in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26. This initiative, part of the Digital Maha Kumbh vision led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, introduces AI Generative Chatbot technology for the first time, officials said on Monday. By simply scanning the QR code, users can receive a personalised Maha Kumbh certificate with their photo on it, which can also be saved digitally or printed. The AI chatbot also provides complete details about every event and major programme of the Maha Kumbh. Regional Tourism Officer, Prayagraj, Aparajita Singh, said under the chief minister's guidance, preparations are underway on war-footing to make the Maha Kumbh a grand, spiritually elevating and hi-tech event. In line with this vision, officials from the Tourism Department, along wit

Indian Railways to elevate tracks for smooth traffic during Maha Kumbh 2025

Indian Railways, in collaboration with the Uttar Pradesh State Bridge Corporation, has undertaken a project to elevate railway tracks to remove level crossings before next year's Maha Kumbh, officials said on Sunday. The initiative is set to ease traffic congestion, save travel time, and provide significant relief to city residents, they added. Celebrated in a cycle of 12 years, the Maha Kumbh will be held in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26. Rail under bridges (RUBs) and rail over bridges (ROBs) are ready on almost all the level crossings in Prayagraj where movement will start fully before the mega event, officials said. Alongside the spiritual festivities, the Maha Kumbh has accelerated industrial growth and commercial development across the region. A major highlight of this transformation is the removal of level crossings, made possible through the collaborative efforts of Indian Railways and the State Bridge Corporation. Amit Malviya, senior public relations officer, .