Maha Kumbh 2025 concludes: Massive Maha Shivratri dip at Sangam, tight security in Prayagraj

Maha Kumbh 2025 concluded on Wednesday, February 26, with massive crowds gathering at Triveni Sangam for the final holy dip on Maha Shivratri. Devotees rushed to the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati in the early hours to perform the sacred ‘snan.’

The six-week-long Maha Kumbh, the world’s largest spiritual gathering, began on January 13. It featured six major bathing days, including three ‘Amrit Snan’ occasions. The final ‘snan’ on Maha Shivratri holds special significance. Hindus celebrate this day as the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It also connects to the legend of Samudra Manthan, where Shiva played a crucial role in securing the Amrit Kumbh (nectar pitcher), the festival’s central theme.

To manage the enormous crowd, authorities turned the Kumbh Mela area into a ‘no vehicle zone.’ DIG (Kumbh) Vaibhav Krishna confirmed that no VIP privileges were granted on this day. The Uttar Pradesh government issued an advisory directing devotees to specific ghats. Those coming from Uttar Jhunsi were advised to use Harishchandra Ghat and Old GT Ghat, while Dakshini Jhunsi visitors were directed to Arail Ghat. Devotees from the Pande area were guided to Bharadwaj Ghat, Nagavasuki Ghat, Mori Ghat, Kali Ghat, Ram Ghat, and Hanuman Ghat.

Security remained tight as the influx of pilgrims exceeded previous days. Over 37,000 police personnel and 14,000 home guards ensured safety. Authorities deployed 2,750 AI-based CCTV cameras, three Jal Police stations, 18 control rooms, and 50 watchtowers. Social media monitoring continued round the clock to prevent misinformation.

The Indian Railways operated more than 350 additional trains from Prayagraj to accommodate returning devotees. Earlier, during Mauni Amavasya, more than 360 special trains helped transport over 20 lakh passengers safely. North Central Railway, North Eastern Railway, and Northern Railway remained on high alert to prevent stampede-like situations. Officials deployed 850 RPF personnel and 290 commercial staff at Jhunsi station, while Prayagraj Rambagh had 500 RPF personnel and 250 staff on duty.

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw personally oversaw the situation. Railway Board Chairman and CEO Satish Kumar, along with general managers from three zones, coordinated operations to manage the surge in passengers.

Fire safety remained a priority due to past incidents at the Mela. Chief Fire Officer Pramod Sharma stated that 50 fire stations and 20 fire posts were on standby to handle emergencies. Fortunately, no casualties occurred during the event.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath extended greetings to devotees, emphasizing Maha Shivratri’s role in inspiring societal welfare. He highlighted Lord Shiva’s universal reverence and the festival’s contribution to strengthening traditions and national unity. “The Jyotirlingas across India symbolize national integration,” he said.

As the Maha Kumbh 2025 came to a close, millions of devotees left Prayagraj with memories of a spiritually enriching experience. Authorities successfully managed the grand event, ensuring smooth logistics and security till the final ‘snan’ on Maha Shivratri.