On Monday morning, millions of devotees flocked to the sacred Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, marking the start of Maha Kumbh 2025, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. The festival, held once every 12 years, is expected to attract over 45 crore people from across the globe. Devotees performed the sacred Shahi Snan, taking a dip in the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers, heralding the beginning of the 45-day spiritual event.

The government has implemented extensive arrangements to ensure the safety and comfort of pilgrims. In a first, advanced surveillance technology has been deployed, including underwater drones capable of diving up to 100 meters and tethered drones for aerial views. The security infrastructure includes 2,700 AI-powered cameras for real-time monitoring and facial recognition at key entry points, as well as a team of 56 cyber warriors to monitor online threats.

Authorities have also set up 150,000 tents to accommodate the massive influx of pilgrims and additional sanitation and healthcare facilities, including temporary hospitals. Power requirements have been addressed with the installation of 450,000 new electricity connections, with the festival expected to consume energy equivalent to 100,000 urban apartments. To ease transportation, 98 special trains will run, and 92 roads have been renovated with 30 new bridges.

For digital engagement, the Kumbh Sah'AI'yak chatbot is available through the Maha Kumbh 2025 app and WhatsApp, offering real-time assistance, multilingual support, and cultural insights to help devotees navigate the event.

Maha Kumbh 2025 will witness a series of elaborate rituals, religious processions, and special events, with key dates such as Mauni Amavasya on January 29, when celestial alignments are believed to purify the waters. The festival concludes on February 26 with a final holy dip.

Among the expected attendees are saints, celebrities, and spiritual leaders, including Laurene Powell Jobs, wife of Apple founder Steve Jobs, who has been renamed 'Kamala' by her guru, Swami Kailashanand Giri Ji Maharaj. PM Modi extended his wishes on the festival's opening, describing it as a celebration of India's spiritual heritage, faith, and unity.