A record 63.36 crore people have bathed at Prayagraj’s Triveni Sangam during a Kumbh festival, which occurs every 12 years. The final “Amrit Snan” began early today, with extensive arrangements for crowd management, sanitation, medical facilities, and security, especially following a deadly stampede in January. This year’s event faced political backlash, with opposition leaders criticizing the government’s handling and allegations of contaminated water at the Sangam. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath denied these claims, accusing critics of misinformation. The Kumbh, mentioned in the Rig Veda, symbolizes the divine nectar of immortality, believed to cleanse sins when bathed under auspicious conditions.
To date, an unprecedented 63.36 crore individuals from various walks of life have participated in the sacred dip at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, where the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati converge.
Extensive preparations have been made for today’s holy dip, which is set to commence before dawn and mark the conclusion of this 12-year festival.
Crowds began to gather at the mela grounds starting Monday for the final “Amrit Snan,” scheduled to take place during the early morning hours.
The government has implemented thorough measures, including effective crowd management, improved sanitation, and sufficient medical services.
This is further supported by detailed arrangements for security, transportation, and emergency response services.
The heightened focus on these preparations followed the tragic stampede on January 26 during Mauni Amavasya, which resulted in over 30 fatalities and more than 60 injuries.
This incident ignited a fierce political debate, with leaders from both the Opposition and the BJP actively participating.
While the Opposition consistently criticized the government, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath accused them of undermining religion and culture. PM Modi remarked that it reflected a “slave mentality.”
Another significant controversy arose from reports indicating that the water at the Sangam was contaminated with fecal coliform bacteria and deemed unsafe for bathing. Yogi Adityanath denied these claims, alleging that critics were disseminating false information.
The Kumbh, first referenced in the Rig Veda, the oldest text of Hinduism, signifies a pitcher. Legend has it that drops of amrit, the elixir of immortality, were spilled during the churning of the cosmic ocean by gods and demons. Bathing in these rivers at auspicious times is believed to cleanse one of all sins.