Maha Kumbh 2025 blends ancient rituals with futuristic innovation

Kumbh Mela, the world’s largest spiritual gathering is currently underway in the holy city of Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India from Jan. 13-26. What makes this year’s Kumbh Mela truly special is that it is also a Maha Kumbh Mela which is the most powerful and rarest of Kumbh Mela held every 144 years.

This once in a several generation historic event of extraordinary magnitude has no other parallels in the world. More than 400 million devotees and tourists from across the globe are expected to throng Prayagraj in this year’s Maha Kumbh.

Origin and significance

Kumbh Mela is deeply etched in the spiritual consciousness of the Indians. Originating in Hindu mythologies and scriptures, the Kumbh Mela has been taking place since centuries. It is believed that during a cosmic battle between dieties and demons over a pot of nectar (amrit), a few drops of nectar fell in the holy cities of Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain and Nashik.

Since then, Kumbh Mela is taking place in these holy cities, every four years on a rotational basis. The planetary alignment of Maha Kumbh Mela comes every 144 years, adding to the significance of this great festival.

The Sangam or confluence of holy rivers of Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati in Prayagraj is the most sacred location during the Kumbh Mela.

It is believed that by taking a dip in the holy waters of the Sangam, one can cleanse oneself of all the sins and attain spiritual liberation or the ‘Moksha’. Apart from the bathing ritual, people engage in worship along the shores of the rivers and participate in grand processions led by saints and their disciples.

Infrastructural arrangements

To accommodate millions of devotees during the Kumbh Mela, Prayagraj has undergone a major infrastructural uplift. Uttar Pradesh’s newest district, Maha Kumbh Nagar, has been established in Prayagraj with state-of-the-art facilities in record time. Massive tent cities have been erected with adequate facilities including water, electricity and medical care. To ensure seamless connectivity for the visitors, the network of roadways, railways, internet and flights have been expanded.

Temporary hospitals equipped with surgical and diagnostic facilities along with dedicated health camps for elderly pilgrims and children are working 24X7, focusing on mobility assistance, hydration support and emergency care. An eye donation camp has been set up to encourage donors to help reduce blindness. A “Netra Kumbh” camp is also operational during the Kumbh Mela which aims to conduct eye tests for over 500,000 pilgrims and distribute more than 300,000 eyeglasses, setting a Guinness World Record. The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 is truly a logistical marvel.

A digital Maha Kumbh

What makes Maha Kumbh 2025 distinct is that it blends tradition and devotion with innovation and modernity like never before. State-of-the-art digital technologies have been deployed to enhance the experience for all attendees.

Land and facility allotments have been digitalised to ensure minimal queues and physical appointments. The Maha Kumbh offers several immersive digital experiences for the visitors. This includes 360 degree virtual reality stalls and mesmerising drone shows highlighting the religious and spiritual significance of Prayagraj.

High-tech security arrangements

To ensure security at world’s largest cultural event, special security arrangements have been put in place. AI-powered cameras have been introduced, along with drones, for enhanced surveillance.

State-of-the-art underwater drones are providing 24/7 surveillance beneath the waters. Remote-controlled lifebuoys have been deployed at large scale to enhance safety. High-tech Lost and Found registration centres have been established in association with the state police department.

Special cyber security arrangements have been initiated to safeguard devotees. A team of 56 cyber warriors is monitoring online threats round the clock. Cyber help desks have been set up in police stations. A dedicated helpline number is operational to assist the visitors.

Articulating Water Towers (AWTs) equipped with advanced technologies, including video and thermal imaging systems, have been deployed to prevent fire incidents and enhance safety. Multi-Disaster Response vehicles are at standby to enhance safety and disaster readiness.

Sustainability

Organising an event of such scale presents challenges linked to waste management and pollution. To tackle these challenges, several eco-friendly steps have been taken by the authorities.

Temporary sewage treatment plants (STPs) have been installed to ensure clean water in the Ganga and Yamuna rivers. Reusable materials have been promoted in the construction of temporary cities.

Solar power is being used for lighting, promoting sustainable energy consumption. These steps are also in line with the objectives of Mission Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) propagated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

Conclusion

Mahakumbh 2025 is an experience like no other. It is not just a religious congregation but a global festival of spirituality, culture, tradition, sustainability, and modernity. These are the values that are cherished and shared by both India and the UAE.

With its embrace of modern technologies, this ancient festival is writing new chapters in the field of event management. It is redefining the ways in which people connect with their spiritual self and this festival’s cultural legacy.

Sunjay Sudhir is the Ambassador of India to the UAE