A stampede at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj early Wednesday (January 29, 2025) resulted in multiple casualties as millions of pilgrims gathered at the Sangam for a holy dip on Mauni Amavasya. The incident occurred between 1 a.m. and 2 a.m. when some devotees climbed over barricades at Akhara Marg, leading to chaos.
While the Uttar Pradesh government has yet to release an official count of casualties, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep condolences, calling the tragedy extremely saddening. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath confirmed that some devotees were “seriously injured” and assured that all necessary assistance was being provided. Rescue teams were seen evacuating injured pilgrims on stretchers, while abandoned belongings, including blankets and bags, were scattered around the site.
The ‘Amrit snan,’ a significant bathing ritual of the akharas that was deferred due to the stampede, resumed in the afternoon. Mahant Ravindra Puri, head of the Akhil Bhartiya Akhara Parishad, led the subdued procession of saints and seers to the Sangam for the snan, which began at around 2:30 p.m.
Meanwhile, thousands of devotees traveling to Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh were stranded at the Madhya Pradesh-Uttar Pradesh border due to overcrowding in the city. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav confirmed that food and accommodation facilities were arranged for stranded devotees in Rewa district. Medical teams have also been deployed to assist with any health-related emergencies. Authorities have urged pilgrims to remain patient and follow safety guidelines as crowd control measures continue to be enforced.
