Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended the successful conclusion of the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, which attracted over 66 crore devotees over 45 days. He acknowledged the efforts of the Centre, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and local residents in managing the event, reflecting a united nation. The PM emphasized the significance of the gathering, stating it demonstrated India’s renewed spirit after overcoming a historical mindset of servitude. He also expressed empathy for the tragedy of 30 lives lost during a stampede and praised the dedication of all involved. Modi highlighted the event as a unique global spectacle and encouraged the participation of the youth.
Prayagraj:
On Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the Maha Kumbh and acknowledged the contributions of the Centre, the Uttar Pradesh government led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, as well as the local residents of Prayagraj for their service to devotees from all over the nation during the 45-day event that concluded on Wednesday, attracting over 66 crore people to Sangam – the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mystical Saraswati.
The Prime Minister remarked that the immense turnout was a sign of a nation that has embraced freedom, moving away from a history of subjugation.
“The Maha Kumbh has concluded. The ‘mahayagna’ of unity has reached its end,” he expressed in a blog post about the Maha Kumbh, which occurs every 12 years.
He mentioned the complexities involved in organizing the event and offered apologies for any inadequacies.
महाकुंभ संपन्न हुआ…एकता का महायज्ञ संपन्न हुआ। प्रयागराज में एकता के महाकुंभ में पूरे 45 दिनों तक जिस प्रकार 140 करोड़ देशवासियों की आस्था एक साथ, एक समय में इस एक पर्व से आकर जुड़ी, वो अभिभूत करता है! महाकुंभ के पूर्ण होने पर जो विचार मन में आए, उन्हें मैंने कलमबद्ध करने का… pic.twitter.com/TgzdUuzuGI
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 27, 2025
“I understand that coordinating such an immense event was a formidable task. I pray to Maa Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati for forgiveness if we have not adequately honored our worship. If our service to the devotees, regarded as divine, fell short, I seek pardon from the public as well,” he conveyed in Hindi.
Tragically, at least 30 devotees lost their lives during a stampede at the Maha Kumbh, which attracted participants in vast numbers from all corners of the nation.
“Over the past 45 days, I have witnessed countless individuals making their way to the banks of Sangam, fueled by a wave of fervor for a ‘Snan’ (holy dip) at the Sangam,” he noted.
Having also taken a dip at Sangam on February 5, PM Modi remarked that the Maha Kumbh has become a focal point of study for modern management professionals, including experts in planning and policy.
“There is no equivalent worldwide to such a grand event; no other example compares,” he stated.
“The entire world is astonished by how such a staggering number of crores of people congregated at the Triveni Sangam. These crores of individuals had neither received formal invitations nor prior notifications about the time of gathering. They simply embarked on their journey to Maha Kumbh…and were blessed by indulging in a dip at the sacred Sangam,” he elaborated.
“I cannot erase from my memory those images. I cannot forget those faces filled with overwhelming joy and fulfillment post-bathing. Regardless of age or ability, people made every effort to reach Sangam,” he added.
The Prime Minister expressed delight at witnessing substantial participation from the younger generation in Prayagraj.
“The eagerness of Indian youth to engage in the Maha Kumbh conveys a powerful message. It reinforces the belief that the youth of India carry our values and culture forward, recognizing their responsibility toward it, and demonstrating determination and dedication,” he stated.
He also commended Yogi Adityanath’s leadership.
“As an MP hailing from UP, I proudly affirm that under Yogi ji’s guidance, the government, administration, and public collectively ensured the success of this Maha Kumbh of unity,” stated PM Modi, who represents the Varanasi constituency in the Lok Sabha.
He recognized the relentless dedication of all involved, including sanitation workers, police personnel, boatmen, drivers, and cooks, crediting the residents of Prayagraj for their contributions as well.
The Prime Minister asserted that an unprecedented event occurred this time, laying a foundation for future centuries.
“The record-breaking number of devotees who attended the Maha Kumbh illustrates this, with nearly double the population of the US participating in the holy dip,” he concluded.