Over 40 lakh take first holy dip as Mahakumbh begins today; CM Yogi, PM Modi share messages | VIDEO
Mahakumbh Nagar (UP): The Mahakumbh Mela commenced at Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers, on Monday, with more than 40 lakh people from different walks of life taking the first holy dip.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has said that the Mahakumbh, which will be held from January 13 to February 26, will elevate India's ancient cultural and religious traditions to global prominence.
Sharing his message on the social media platform X, the Chief Minister welcomed devotees, saints, and Kalpvasis to the grand spiritual gathering, emphasising the confluence of faith and modernity that the Mahakumbh represents.
CM Yogi wrote in a post, “Greetings on Paush Purnima. The world's largest spiritual and cultural gathering 'Mahakumbh' is starting from today in the holy city of Prayagraj. All the revered saints, Kalpvasis, and devotees who have come to experience unity in diversity, to meditate and take a holy bath at the confluence of faith and modernity are heartily welcomed. May Maa Ganga fulfil all your wishes. Best wishes for the inauguration and first bath of Maha Kumbh Prayagraj. Sanatan Pride-Maha Kumbh Festival.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also highlighted the cultural and spiritual significance of the Mahakumbh Mela. The Prime Minister described it as a very special day for those who cherish Indian values and culture, saying the massive religious event embodies India's timeless spiritual heritage.
"A very special day for crores of people who cherish Bharatiya values and culture! Mahakumbh 2025 commences 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 said on X.
Mahakumbh Mela officer Vijay Kiran Anand said that, "so far, more than 40 lakh people have taken a dip".
To see more images of Mahakumbh Mela 2025, click here.
Speaking about the significance of 'Paush Purnima', Ashutosh Varshney, the convenor of Prayagraj-based NGO Ram Naam Bank, said the occasion occurs on the 15th day of 'Shukla Paksh' in the Hindu calendar month of 'Paush'.
It also marks the initiation of 'Kalpvasa', a period of intense spiritual practice and devotion observed by pilgrims during the Mahakumbh Mela, he added.
The holy city of Prayagraj is now welcoming saints, seers, pilgrims, devotees and citizens from different walks of life.
Nearly 50 lakh devotees took a dip at the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati rivers in Mahakumbh Nagar on Sunday, a day ahead of the 'Paush Purnima', the authorities said.
Earlier on Saturday, 33 lakh devotees visited the Mela to bathe in the Sangam, Director Information Shishir said, adding over 85 lakh people had bathed in the river in the past two days.
(with inputs from agencies)