Mahakumbh 2025 LIVE: Over 1.5 crore devotees take dip on first day in Sangam as 45-day event begins

Mahakumbh 2025 LIVE: More than 60 lakh devotees took a holy dip at Sangamon Monday, as one of the world’s largest spiritual events began in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. The first Shahi Snan of Mhakumbh was held on Paush Purnima today.
Sangam is the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and mystical Saraswati rivers. Given the massive number of devotees, it is set to attract throughout the 45-day festival, the religious event will also give a massive boost to local trade.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday extended wishes over the beginning of the religious festival and said that ‘Mahakumbh embodies India’s timeless spiritual heritage and celebrates faith and harmony.”
Several foreign visitors also attended Mahakumbh on Monday. Many even took holy dip in water despite cold weather.
Praveen Khandelwal Secretary General of CAIT, on Monday, said that the spiritual event is likely to generate a large scale economic and trade activities.
“An estimate suggests that with an average expenditure of ₹5,000 per person during religious travel, the total spending will exceed ₹2 lakh crore. This includes spending on hotels, guesthouses, temporary accommodations, food, religious items, healthcare, and other services” said Praveen Khandelwal, Secretary General of CAIT.

When will Mahakumbh begin?
Mahakumbh Mela began in Prayagraj today, January 13 and will conclude on February 26, 2025. The religious event is likely to attract millions of pilgrims seeking spiritual purification.

When will Mahakumbh 2025 end?
After beginning in January, Mahakumbh Mela 2025 will conclude on February 26.

Why is Mahakumbh 2025 is so special?
Kumbh Mela occurs every three years in four different locations. However, Mahakumbh is organised only in Prayagraj after every twelve years. Additionally, Mahakumbh 2025 is more special not only because of its religious significance but also because of the rare celestial alignment that occurs only once every 144 years.

Key Shahi Snan Mahakumbh 2025 dates:
January 13 – Paush Purnima Snan today (Opening Day)
January 15 – Makar Sankranti Snan
January 29 – Mauni Amavasya Snan (Royal Bath/Shahi Snan)
February 3 – Basant Panchami Snan (Royal Bath/Shahi Snan)
February 12 – Maghi Purnima Snan
February 26 – Maha Shivratri Snan (Concluding Day)

Mahakumbh helpline number
In case a tourist needs any help or want any information related to Mahakumbh Mela, he or she can contact the Ministry of Tourism to a dedicated toll-free Tourist infoline number, ie 1800111363 or 1363.
The toll-free tourist infoline will operate in Hindi, English, and other national and international languages.