The Uttar Pradesh government’s Maha Kumbh has become a global attraction, drawing a delegation of 21 representatives from 10 countries to Prayagraj’s Sangam on Thursday. Among the delegates, Denesh Persaud from Guyana shared his joy after a sacred dip in the Ganges, calling it a “dream come true.” He encouraged others to join this significant event and experience its spiritual essence.
Sally El Azab from the UAE traveled to India to witness the Kumbh Mela, the world’s largest religious gathering. She praised its exceptional organization, emphasizing the government’s efforts in ensuring safety and smooth arrangements.
The delegation, invited by India’s Ministry of External Affairs, arrived on January 13 and is staying in the Tent City at Arail, developed by the Uttar Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation. Delegates include representatives from Fiji, Finland, Malaysia, Mauritius, Singapore, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, and the UAE.
Over 60 million pilgrims have already participated, with 35 million attending on Makar Sankranti alone. To manage the influx, an AI-based lost and found center has been established. Additional Mela Adhikari Vivek Chaturvedi noted that the center provides food, clothing, and shelter for lost individuals and has successfully reunited all cases with their families. In rare instances, the administration arranged travel for individuals to return home.
The 45-day-long Maha Kumbh, which began on January 13, will conclude on February 26. Key dates for upcoming holy dips include Mauni Amavasya on January 29, Basant Panchami on February 3, Maghi Purnima on February 12, and Maha Shivaratri on February 26.
