
Maha Kumbh 2025 Concludes: 65 Crore Pilgrims Mark Historic 144-Year Religious Gathering
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The 45-day Maha Kumbh Mela, considered the world's largest religious gathering, concluded Wednesday at Prayagraj's Triveni Sangam with the final Amrit Snan on Maha Shivratri, drawing a record-breaking 65 crore participants throughout the event [1][2].
The historic gathering, occurring once every 144 years, began on January 13 and featured unprecedented technological integration, including AI-enabled cameras and underwater drones for crowd management and safety [3]. Officials utilized advanced monitoring systems to track attendance, with over 3,000 cameras, including 1,800 AI-enabled ones, deployed across the venue.
"We are utilizing AI-driven crowd density calculations for precise attendance figures," said Divisional Commissioner Vijay Vishwas Pant [3]. The system generated immediate alerts, enabling officials to effectively monitor devotee movement throughout the event.
The final day saw massive crowds gathering since midnight, with over 1.32 crore devotees participating in the concluding ritual bath [2]. Security measures were heightened, with authorities implementing a "no vehicle zone" and strict crowd management protocols [5].
Notable visitors throughout the event included President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who took a holy dip on February 5, and four generations of the Ambani family [1][4]. International attendees included the King of Bhutan, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, and various global celebrities [1].
The event faced challenges, including a tragic stampede on January 29 that claimed 30 lives [1]. However, the implementation of advanced security measures, including anti-drone systems and AI-enabled surveillance, helped maintain overall safety throughout the gathering.
"Nobody wants to miss out on this opportunity," said Maha Kumbh SSP Rajesh Dwivedi on the final day, noting the significance of the event that drew pilgrims from across India and beyond [4].