Millions gather at Prayagraj for final holy dip of Maha Kumbh on Mahashivratri

Prayagraj witnessed an overwhelming influx of devotees at the Triveni Sangam on Wednesday as the Maha Kumbh Mela neared its conclusion. Marking the sacred occasion of Mahashivratri, lakhs of pilgrims took a ceremonial dip in the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati, seeking spiritual purification and liberation.

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Mahashivratri, a festival celebrating the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, holds immense religious significance, particularly in the context of the Kumbh Mela, which is held once every 12 years. According to Hindu beliefs, the festival is also linked to Lord Shiva’s role in the Samudra Manthan, which led to the emergence of the Amrit Kumbh, the essence of the Kumbh Mela.

The turnout for the final holy dip was massive, with official estimates indicating that by 2 a.m., over 11.66 lakh devotees had bathed at the Sangam. This figure surged to 41.11 lakh by 6 a.m., with numbers expected to exceed one crore throughout the day.

To ensure the smooth conduct of rituals, the Uttar Pradesh administration had deployed extensive security and logistical arrangements. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath extended his greetings to devotees and offered prayers for peace and prosperity.

As the six-week-long religious congregation concludes, the Maha Kumbh Mela once again reaffirms its status as one of the world's largest spiritual gatherings.