Maha Kumbh 2025 Live Updates: 1.60 crore devotees take holy dip in Sangam on 1st Amrit Snan

The world's largest spiritual congregation commenced with the 'Shahi Snan' during Paush Purnima on Monday, drawing worshippers from India and across the globe to Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj, where they participate in the sacred bathing ritual at Triveni Sangam during the Maha Kumbh Mela. Several international devotees braved the chilly winter temperatures to immerse themselves in the sacred waters of Triveni Sangam, where the rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and the 'mystical' Saraswati converge. "Mera Bharat Mahaan. India is a great country. We are here at Kumbh Mela for the first time. Here we can see the real India - the true power lies in the people of India. I am shaking because of the vibe of the people of this holy place. I love India," said a Russian devotee.

Alliance Air launched a new flight service between Dehradun and Prayagraj on Sunday to facilitate pilgrims' travel to the Mahakumbh Mela, which begins in the UP city on Monday.The 70-seater aircraft deployed for this route will depart from Doon on Sundays and return on Tuesdays.The flight will arrive in Dehradun from Delhi at 4pm, proceed to Prayagraj, and then return to Delhi.

The world's largest spiritual congregation commenced with the 'Shahi Snan' during Paush Purnima on Monday, drawing worshippers from India and across the globe to Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj, where they participate in the sacred bathing ritual at Triveni Sangam during the Maha Kumbh Mela.Several international devotees braved the chilly winter temperatures to immerse themselves in the sacred waters of Triveni Sangam, where the rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and the 'mystical' Saraswati converge.

Traffic police have devised a comprehensive plan to ensure smooth vehicular movement and safety of the devotees visiting the mela area.The plan includes traffic diversions and parking arrangements for all vehicles entering the mela area.The entry route to the Sangam Mela area will be through Jawaharlal Nehru Marg (Black Road), while the exit route will be via Triveni Marg.During the major bathing festivals, the Akshayavat Darshan will remain closed for visitors.

Chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday said the Maha Kumbh offers a rare opportunity for people to explore the spiritual and cultural heritage of Uttar Pradesh and India. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Gorakhpur Mahotsav, he highlighted the significance of the Maha Kumbh, which is expected to attract a whopping 400 million visitors from Jan 13 to Feb 26. He urged devotees to first offer khichdi to Baba Gorakhnath on Makar Sankranti and then participate in the Maha Kumbh to experience its grandeur.