Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: A vibrant odyssey of tradition, faith and spirituality

Devotees arrive at Sangam ahead of the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, in Prayagraj. The Kumbh Mela has forever been associated with taking a dip in holy rivers to cleanse oneself of sins and walk on the path of moksha.

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As the procession made its way towards the Mela area, onlookers showered flower petals on the yatra. In response, the seers offered their blessings. Some sadhus with huge buns over their heads and covered with garlands of beads made of Rudraksh also draw massive attraction.

Vaishnav Akharas also arrived at Maha Kumbh, led by Jagadguru Rambhadracharya.

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A 'sadhu' of 'Shri Digambar Akhara' taking part in the 'Peshwai' procession. This event marked the official arrival of sadhus and members of Akharas for the Maha Kumbh Mela. Dressed in traditional attire and chanting holy hymns, the people symbolised the deep spiritual roots and unity among the Akharas.

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The main attraction was the display of the sword fight of the Naga sadhus. As the religious warrior clan, Naga sadhus are well-trained in different weaponry, which are prized possessions of the akhara. Besides, the Naga sadhus also displayed their talent in stick fighting.

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Acharya Mahamandaleshwar of 'Niranjani Akhara' Swami Kailashanand Giri Maharaj with 'sadhus' during the 'Dharma Dhwaja' ceremony ahead of Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, at Sangam area in Prayagraj.

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Some Naga sadhus were seen riding horses while others chose camels and elephants. Many were beating traditional drums while others displayed their talents with different weaponry.

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The UP government has made arrangements to accomodate people of all preferences. Even the ones looking for a luxurious stay in the middle of the chaos would not be disappointed with the tariff of Swiss tents, wooden cottages and dome rooms with a view of the banks of Sangam ranging between Rs 12,000 and Rs 1 lakh for a night.

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The Uttar Pradesh government has designated the Maha Kumbh Mela area, covering over 4,000 hectares, as the 76th district of the state to ensure smoother management and organisation of the religious gathering.

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Foreign devotees taking part in the 'Chavni Pravesh', the royal entry procession for Maha Kumbh Mela 2025. The mela is likely to be attended by 40 crore devotees, as compared to the 24 crore people last time in 2019. It is more than a religious event with people from different walks of life, faith, background and belief joining in.

(Image credit: PTI)