The grand Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj culminated on Wednesday, February 26, with the final sacred bath at Triveni Sangam on the occasion of Maha Shivratri. Devotees thronged the ghats in the early hours for the last ‘snan,’ bringing an end to the world’s largest spiritual congregation that had been ongoing for six weeks.
Maha Shivratri holds special significance at the Kumbh Mela, as per Hindu mythology, marking Lord Shiva’s pivotal role in the Samudra Manthan that led to the emergence of the Amrit Kumbh (nectar pitcher). This year’s Maha Kumbh featured six special bathing days, including three ‘Amrit Snan’ occasions—Paush Purnima (January 13), Makar Sankranti (January 14), Mauni Amavasya (January 29), Basant Panchami (February 3), Maghi Purnima (February 12), and finally Maha Shivratri.
Strict Security & No-Vehicle Zone in Kumbh Mela Area
To manage the massive turnout, the entire Kumbh Mela region was declared a ‘no-vehicle zone.’ Deputy Inspector General (Kumbh) Vaibhav Krishna emphasized that no VIP treatment would be provided on Maha Shivratri and urged devotees to use designated ghats for their holy dip.
The Uttar Pradesh government issued advisories directing devotees to nearby ghats based on their entry routes. Extensive security arrangements were made, with 37,000 police personnel, 14,000 home guards, and 2,750 AI-powered CCTV cameras deployed. Additionally, 50 watch towers, three Jal Police stations, and 18 control rooms were set up to monitor safety. Officials also kept a close watch on social media to counter misinformation.
Indian Railways Deploys Special Trains for Pilgrim Movement
Given the heavy influx of pilgrims, Indian Railways arranged over 350 special trains to facilitate devotees’ return. Earlier, during Mauni Amavasya, over 360 additional trains were operated, safely transporting more than 20 lakh passengers. With recent stampede incidents in mind, railway zones were put on high alert.
Security at key railway stations was heightened, with 850 Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel and 290 commercial staff at Jhunsi station, and 500 RPF personnel at Prayagraj Rambagh. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw personally monitored the operations, with the Railway Board Chairman and general managers coordinating the surge in passenger movement.
Fire Safety & Government Precautions
Fire safety measures were reinforced, with 50 fire stations and 20 fire posts set up across the Mela grounds. Chief Fire Officer Pramod Sharma assured that all emergency protocols were in place to prevent mishaps.
CM Yogi Adityanath’s Message
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath extended his greetings for the final ‘Amrit Snan’ at the Maha Kumbh, highlighting the spiritual significance of Maha Shivratri. He emphasized that such celebrations strengthen traditions and national unity, with the Jyotirlingas serving as symbols of cultural integration across India.
With the conclusion of Maha Kumbh 2025, Prayagraj witnessed an unparalleled spiritual congregation, reaffirming its status as a sacred destination for millions of devotees worldwide.
