Mahakumbh 2025: Holy dip performed by 1.5 cr devotees on first day, says UP CM

Mahakumbh Mela 2025 live: As the Maha Kumbh Mela began on Monday, Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak extended a warm welcome to all devotees, highlighting that the state government has ensured comprehensive arrangements, covering security and health.

"I wholeheartedly welcome all the devotees. The Uttar Pradesh Government has made complete arrangements. From security to health, all arrangements are in place. The government has made all necessary preparations to handle every situation," Pathak told ANI.

By 9.30 AM on the first day of Maha Kumbh 2025, over six million devotees had taken a holy dip in the Sangam, as per the Uttar Pradesh government.

Mahakumbh Mela 2025 live: Bihar deputy chief minister Samrat Choudhary, speaking about MahaKumbh Mela 2025 said, “Mahakumbh is a symbol of Sanatan, and whoever takes a holy dip in Mahakumbh, his life will also become clean.”

Other deputy CM of Bihar, Vijay Kumar Sinha highlighted the significance of the event, stating, “Today the Maha Kumbh has started... We all will move towards a developed Bihar along with a developed India... A positive energy will flow in everyone's mind.”

Meanwhile, Bihar BJP president Dilip Jaiswal noted, "Lakhs of people from Bihar are going to Maha Kumbh, and Maha Kumbh is considered a very auspicious moment in our Sanatan tradition... everyone is going there to take a holy dip..."

Mahakumbh Mela 2025 live: As the Maha Kumbh commences in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, with an estimated four crore devotees expected to take a holy dip during the 45-day event, a comprehensive seven-ring security system has transformed the mela area into a secure zone to ensure pilgrim safety.

To facilitate smooth operations, authorities have declared the entire mela area a ‘no vehicle zone’ and implemented a traffic diversion plan across all seven routes leading to the Sangam (the sacred confluence), as reported by the Times of India. Dig deeper

Mahakumbh Mela 2025 live: Uttar Pradesh's Director General of Police, Prashant Kumar, emphasised the integration of “faith and modern technology” at Mahakumbh 2025 event.

He noted the use of advanced tools like drones and CCTV to bolster security and ensure seamless operations.

Speaking to ANI, DGP Prashant Kumar highlighted the measures in place, stating that expanded 'ghats' and an effective crowd management system are key to providing a spiritual yet secure experience for all attendees.

The Maha Kumbh Mela began on Monday, drawing a significant number of devotees for the sacred 'Snan.'

Mahakumbh Mela 2025 live: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday hailed the commencement of Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj, describing it as a proud testament to India's spiritual and cultural legacy, reflecting the nation's spirit of "unity in diversity."

According to an official release, the chief minister said, "The world's largest spiritual and cultural gathering, Mahakumbh 2025, commenced on Monday in the sacred city of Prayagraj." He extended a heartfelt welcome to devotees, saints, mahatmas, kalpvasis, and visitors, offering his best wishes for the first holy dip of Mahakumbh.

Adityanath called Mahakumbh a proud symbol of India's spiritual and cultural heritage, exemplifying "unity in diversity."

He expressed hope that the aspirations of all those seeking spiritual fulfilment through meditation and a holy dip in the sacred waters of the Ganga would be fulfilled.

Mahakumbh Mela 2025 live: SSP Kumbh, Rajesh Dwivedi, shared, “We received information about a girl who was lost. She stays in a hostel here in Prayagraj. We assisted her and ensured she reached her destination.”

Maha Kumbh Mela DIG Vaibhav Krishna said, “Approximately 50 lakh people have taken a holy dip so far. Official figures will be released soon. All arrangements are in place, and crowd management is proceeding smoothly. Adequate parking facilities are available for vehicles. Both Central and State police forces are deployed, and we are fully prepared to handle any situation.”

Mahakumbh Mela 2025 live: “It's an incredible opportunity to come because I have heard about it so much... Although I have just arrived and have not explored much, it's very nice, the camps and there are so many activities. I am very excited to meet the 'sadhus' and all the spiritual figures who are doing the best,” said French journalist Milani.

Mahakumbh Mela 2025 live: Uttar Pradesh DGP Prashant Kumar stated, "Maha Kumbh 2025 has begun today, with about 60 lakh people taking a holy dip. This year, it is a blend of faith and modernity. In addition to the traditional police system, we have enhanced arrangements for devotees using advanced technology. Today, 'Pushp Varsha' will also take place. Everything is proceeding smoothly and without interruptions. All measures are in place to make this Kumbh grand, divine, digital, and safe."

Mahakumbh 2025 live updates: Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X to share the beginning of Maha Kumbh 2025, saying, "A very special day for crores of people who cherish Bharatiya values and culture! Maha Kumbh 2025 begins in Prayagraj, bringing together countless people in a sacred confluence of faith, devotion, and culture. The Maha Kumbh embodies India’s timeless spiritual heritage and celebrates faith and harmony."

He added, “I am happy to see Prayagraj abuzz with countless people coming here, taking the holy dip, and seeking blessings. Wishing all pilgrims and tourists a wonderful stay.”

Mahakumbh 2025 live updates: The Mahants of Nirmohi Akhara, Digambar Akhara, and Nirvani Ani Akhara inspected the route for the 'Rajsi Snan' (Shahi Snan) leading from the saints' camps to the Sangam Ghat on Sunday

Rajendra Das, Mahant of Nirmohi Akhara, shared with ANI, "People are going to come here and take a divine dip in the Triveni Sangam. We came here to look at the camps... we hope more and more people come here for the Kumbh Mela. This is a sacred fair which is also grand and divine."

Mahant Ram Kishore Shastri of Digambar Akhara also spoke to ANI, saying, "The preparations have been made in a very good manner. Those who want to perform religious deeds will come here..."

Mahakumbh 2025 live updates: In Prayagraj, Swami Avdheshanand Giri Maharaj, Mahamandaleshwar of Juna Akhara speaking about the Mahakumbh said, “Water is integral to our Sanatan culture; it holds life-giving power. Our gods, like Narayana and Brahma, derive their existence from water. Today marks the start of the Hindu month of 'Magha' with Paush Purnima. Many devotees have come here not just for a dip but for spiritual practices ('anushthan'). They seek to understand the true meaning and essence of human life.”

Mahakumbh 2025 live updates: A Russian devotee at Mahakumbh 2025 shared, “...'Mera Bharat Mahaan'... India is an incredible country. This is our first time at the Kumbh Mela. Here, we witness the true essence of India – the real strength lies in its people. I’m moved by the energy and spirit of the people at this sacred place. I love India…”

Mahakumbh 2025 live updates: To assist devotees as the 45-day #Mahakumbh2025 begins with the auspicious Paush Purnima on Monday, Uttar Pradesh police have set up a special floating police chowki.

Mahakumbh 2025 live updates: Over 45 crore people are expected to visit Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh during the Maha Kumbh Mela from January 13 to February 26. To ensure smooth vehicular movement, authorities have implemented detailed traffic management plans.

According to a release from the Uttar Pradesh Information Department, the plan includes specific traffic diversions and designated parking arrangements for vehicles entering the Maha Kumbh Mela area. Dig deeper

Mahakumbh 2025 live updates: Despite the freezing waters of winter, a group of foreign devotees took a dip at the Triveni Sangam, the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mystical Saraswati on Monday.

Francisco, a Brazilian devotee visiting India for the first time in search of Moksha, shared that it was an incredible experience being there. Although the water at the confluence was cold, he felt warmth in his heart after the dip. "I came to India for the first time... I practice Yoga and I am searching for Moksha. It's amazing here; India is the spiritual heart of the world... The water is cold, but the heart is filled with warmth," he said.

Another devotee from Spain expressed his gratitude for the experience. "We are many friends here--from Spain, Brazil, Portugal... We are on a spiritual trip. I took a holy dip and enjoyed it much; I am very lucky," he shared.

Mahakumbh 2025 live updates: Paush Purnima, falling on the 15th day of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase) in the Hindu month of Paush, marks the arrival of the full moon. It unofficially inaugurates the Maha Kumbh Mela, signalling the start of this grand event. Furthermore, Paush Purnima also ushers in Kalpvasa, a time of deep spiritual practice and devotion observed by pilgrims during the Maha Kumbh Mela.

Bathing dates

Paush Purnima – 13 January 2025

Makar Sankranti – 14 January 2025

Mauni Amavasya – 29 January 2025

Basant Panchami – 3 February 2025

Maghi Purnima – 12 February 2025

Maha Shivaratri – 26 February 2025

Mahakumbh 2025 live updates: In an interview with news agency ANI, Nikki, a devotee from Cape Town, South Africa, attending Mahakumbh2025, expressed, "It's incredibly powerful, and we feel truly blessed to be here at the river Ganga..."

A large crowd of devotees gathered at the Triveni Sangam, the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mystical Saraswati, where they took a holy dip and performed the sacred rituals on this auspicious occasion.

This year's Maha Kumbh, the world's largest spiritual gathering, is even more special due to a rare celestial alignment that occurs only once every 144 years.

Mahakumbh 2025 live updates: The bathing ritual is the most important practice at the Maha Kumbh Mela. While taking a dip in the sacred waters of Prayagraj throughout the festival, beginning from Makar Sankranti, is considered holy, certain dates are particularly auspicious. Devotees gather in large numbers at the Triveni Sangam, believing that the dip cleanses them of sins, frees them and their ancestors from the cycle of rebirth, and brings Moksha (spiritual liberation).

In addition to bathing, pilgrims engage in worship along the riverbanks and participate in enlightening discourses led by sadhus and saints.

Specific dates, starting from Paush Purnima, are marked by grand processions of saints, disciples, and Akharas, who take part in the Shahi Snan (Royal Bath). This ritual is the main highlight of the event, symbolising the blessings and wisdom of saints who have preceded the devotees in the holy

Mahakumbh 2025 live updates: Teams from the RAF, Police, and CRPF are on-site to ensure the safety and security of devotees as a massive crowd gathers at Mela Kshetra in Prayagraj for what is considered the world’s largest gathering of people.

Mahakumbh 2025 live updates: Jitesh Prabhakar, originally from Mysore and now a German citizen, arrived at Mahakumbh in Prayagraj with his wife, Saskia Knauf, and their baby boy, Aditya.

In a conversation with ANI, Jitesh shared, “It doesn't matter if I live here (in India) or abroad - the connection should be there. I practice Yoga every day. One should be grounded and always try to travel towards inner self.”

Saskia Knauf expressed her excitement, saying, “I am very excited. I always like coming here.”

Mahakumbh 2025 live updates: The cost of a helicopter joyride at Maha Kumbh has been reduced to ₹1,296 per person, a significant drop from the earlier fare of ₹3,000, Uttar Pradesh government announced.

Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh announced that the 7–8 minute helicopter rides will commence on January 13. "Helicopter joyride of Maha Kumbh will now cost ₹1,296 per person from the earlier fare of ₹3,000 rate," a government statement said.

The ride offers tourists an aerial view of the expansive Maha Kumbh area, including Prayagraj city. Bookings can be made online through www.upstdc.co.in and will be managed by Pawan Hans, a Government of India enterprise.

The rides will operate "continuously" based on weather conditions, as per the statement. Additionally, the UP Tourism and Culture Department has arranged for water and adventure sports activities at the fair site.

Mahakumbh 2025 live updates: The 45-day Mahakumbh Mela 2025 began early Monday on Paush Purnima. Approximately 1.5 crore (15 million) devotees are anticipated to take a holy dip at the Sangam—the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati—amid heightened security arrangements.

Before the first 'Snan,' Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath extended his greetings in the early hours through his X handle. At 3:38 am, he posted, "The world's largest spiritual and cultural gathering 'Mahakumbh' is starting from today in the holy city of Prayagraj."

Welcoming all attendees, he added, "All the revered saints, Kalpvasis, devotees who have come to experience unity in diversity, for meditation and holy bath at the confluence of faith and modernity are heartily welcomed. May Maa Ganga fulfil all your wishes."