The 45-day Maha Kumbh Mela, previously known as Purna Kumbh, concluded in Prayagraj on February 26. The grand religious gathering, which began on January 13 during Makar Sankranti, attracted millions of devotees who took a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam.
Record-Breaking Attendance
According to the Uttar Pradesh government, the event saw an overwhelming participation of 650 million people, exceeding the initial estimate of 400 million. On the final day alone, approximately 14.4 million devotees took part in the sacred ritual.
Tragedies and Controversies
The event was marred by a tragic stampede on January 29, resulting in at least 30 deaths and 60 injuries. Additionally, on February 16, the National Green Tribunal criticized the UP Pollution Control Board for allowing people to bathe in contaminated water, calling it unfit for use.
Political and Legal Developments
BJP leader Mithun Chakraborty refuted remarks made by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee regarding the Maha Kumbh. Meanwhile, authorities registered FIRs against 140 social media handles for allegedly spreading misleading content about the event.
Economic Impact
The Maha Kumbh is expected to contribute significantly to Uttar Pradesh’s economy, with an estimated economic spinoff of ₹2 trillion. The state’s Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) for 2024-25 stands at ₹27.51 trillion.
Notable Visitors
The religious gathering attracted several prominent personalities, including President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. Industrialists Mukesh Ambani and Gautam Adani, Apple founder Steve Jobs’ widow Laura Powell, Coldplay’s Chris Martin, Union ministers, and Bollywood celebrities also attended the event.
