Mahakumbh to Conclude in Divine Splendour Today; Over 1.5 cr Devotees Expected
Indian Railways to run over 350 special trains from Prayagraj to ease the return of pilgrims.
The air resonated with chants of "Har Har Mahadev" as pilgrims, sadhus, and global visitors unite in reverence. The grand spectacle of Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj to reach its climactic finale today, coinciding with the sacred festival of Mahashivratri. Over 1.5 crore devotees are expected to thronged the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers, taking a holy dip to mark the last Amrit Snan of this 45-day spiritual gathering, believed to be the largest congregation of humanity on Earth.
The Uttar Pradesh administration, led by District Magistrate Ravindra Kumar Mandar, pulled out all stops to ensure a seamless conclusion. With the Mahakumbh area declared a no-vehicle zone since Tuesday evening, authorities deployed over 350 additional security personnel, including NDRF divers and extra boats, to manage the unprecedented crowds. Drone footage captured the breathtaking sight of millions lining the ghats, their faith undeterred by the chilly morning mist. "Our preparations have been meticulous," Mandar said, noting that all Shiva temples in the vicinity were spruced up for the occasion, hosting special prayers and rituals.
Since January 13, the Mahakumbh has welcomed over 64 crore visitors, with numbers expected to surpass 66 crore by day’s end. The final day sees a surge as devotees sought to combine the purifying dip at Sangam with Mahashivratri’s spiritual significance, commemorating the union of Shiva and Parvati. Sadhus from various akharas led vibrant processions. At Kashi Vishwanath temple, hours away in Varanasi, the traditional Shiv Baraat procession was rescheduled to February 27 to accommodate the influx from Prayagraj.
Amid the celebration, the Indian Railways to run over 350 special trains from Prayagraj to ease the return of pilgrims, while the administration urged bathers to use nearby ghats to avoid overcrowding at Sangam. The day was not without its challenges. Reports of minor mishaps surfaced. But, the spirit of devotion prevailed.
With the sun set on February 26, the Mahakumbh will conclude with a grand ceremony, leaving behind a legacy of faith, unity, and resilience. For the millions who participate, it will be an extraordinary experience - one that merged the earthly with the divine on this Great Night of Shiva. (Pic credit: PTI)
