Maha Kumbh 2025: Several feared dead after stampede at Sangam on Mauni Amavasya

Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh – The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, one of the largest spiritual gatherings in the world, witnessed a stampede-like situation on the morning of Mauni Amavasya, leaving many feared dead and around 30 women injured. The incident occurred as millions of devotees thronged the Sangam Ghat for the highly auspicious Amrit Snan (holy dip) during the Triveni Yog, a rare celestial alignment that occurs once every 144 years.

The chaos unfolded when barricades, located about a kilometer away from the Sangam, broke under the pressure of the massive crowd. Several women fainted, leading to a stampede-like scenario. The injured were immediately rushed to hospitals within the Mela grounds, with critical cases being transferred to Bailey Hospital and Swaroop Rani Medical College for further treatment.

In light of the incident, the Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad has decided to defer the Amrit Snan for seers and saints. Mahant Ravindra Puri, president of the Parishad, urged devotees to take the holy dip in the Ganga wherever they are and return home safely. Mahant Hari Giri, General Secretary of the Akhada Parishad, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing safety over ritual.

Also read: Ultimate Guide to Maha Kumbh Mela - 2025

Travel Advisory for Pilgrims

With over 10 crore pilgrims expected to participate in the Amrit Snan on Mauni Amavasya, the Prayagraj administration has implemented stringent security measures, including AI-powered surveillance, drone monitoring, and increased police presence. The Mela area has been declared a no-vehicle zone for the next few days, and locals have been advised to avoid four-wheelers unless transporting senior citizens.

For travelers planning to visit the Maha Kumbh, here are some key updates:

1. Rail Connectivity: Indian Railways is running 360 trains, including 190 special trains, to manage the unprecedented influx of pilgrims. Trains are operating at a frequency of one every four minutes across Northern Railway, North Eastern Railway, and North Central Railway zones.

2. Medical Facilities: Over 1,000 medical professionals and 300 specialist doctors have been deployed across the Mela grounds, with provisions for minor to major surgeries. A super-specialty hospital is also operational in Mahakumbh Nagar.

3. Crowd Management: Pilgrims are advised to follow designated routes, avoid overcrowded areas, and adhere to safety instructions from authorities.

4. Spiritual Significance: Despite the incident, the Amrit Snan on Mauni Amavasya remains the most significant ritual of the Maha Kumbh, with the holy rivers believed to turn into Amrit (nectar) on this day.

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience

The Maha Kumbh Mela, which began on January 13 and will continue till February 26, has already seen over 15 crore pilgrims taking the holy dip in the past 17 days. The event is not just a spiritual journey but also a cultural spectacle, featuring majestic processions by Akharas (sects of saints) and the showering of 25 quintals of rose petals from helicopters.

For travelers seeking a transformative experience, the Maha Kumbh offers a unique blend of devotion, tradition, and history. However, pilgrims are urged to prioritize safety, stay vigilant, and follow official guidelines to ensure a smooth and fulfilling journey.

Plan your visit wisely, and may your pilgrimage be blessed with peace and spiritual fulfillment.