20 Million Devotees Take First Holy Dip at Maha Kumbh 2025

Historic turnout marks the first ‘Amrit Snan’ at Prayagraj’s Triveni Sangam; CM Yogi Adityanath hails the event as a testament to India’s culture and faith.

Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh), January 14: Nearly 20 million devotees have participated in the first Amrit Snan of the Maha Kumbh 2025 at the sacred Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, with numbers expected to exceed 25 million by evening.

Massive Turnout for Sacred Rituals

Amrit Abhijat, Uttar Pradesh’s Principal Secretary for Urban Development, reported the immense turnout, stating, “So far, about 2 crore people have taken a dip. By evening, more than 2.50 crore people will have participated.”

Uttar Pradesh DGP Prashant Kumar highlighted the extensive security measures in place. “Since Sadhus from several Akharas are taking the holy dip, the situation is being closely monitored. By noon, around 1.60 crore people had taken a holy dip,” he said.

Thermal imaging, police response vehicles, and ambulances have ensured seamless crowd management and safety for devotees braving the cold to participate in the sacred ritual.

CM Yogi Adityanath’s Message

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath congratulated devotees on this auspicious occasion, describing it as a testament to India’s enduring culture.

“This is the living form of our eternal culture and faith. Congratulations to all the devotees who earned virtue by taking the first Amrit Snan at the Triveni Sangam,” CM Yogi posted on X.

Voices from the Gathering

Foreign devotees and Indian pilgrims alike expressed their awe at the event.

“This is my third Kumbh. Beneath all the hustle, there’s something eternal here. You just learn to go with the flow,” shared a devotee from abroad.

Swami Chidambaranand, Mahamandaleshwar of the Mahanirvan Akhara, described the Maha Kumbh as an unparalleled celebration of Indian civilisation.

“Crores of people are witnessing the pride of our culture. There is joy and unity everywhere. Those who criticize our religion should see this: there are no divisions here—only Hindus and Hindu culture,” he said.

A Global Celebration

A foreign devotee remarked, “Maha Kumbh is an occasion for the entire world, not just India.”

Upcoming Snan Dates

The Maha Kumbh 2025 continues until February 26, with significant bathing dates including:

• January 14: Makar Sankranti (First Shahi Snan)
• January 29: Mauni Amavasya (Second Shahi Snan)
• February 3: Basant Panchami (Third Shahi Snan)
• February 12: Maghi Purnima
• February 26: Maha Shivaratri

The Maha Kumbh serves as a profound spiritual experience and a showcase of India’s rich heritage and unity.