Devotees gather for the six-week event believed to absolve sins through a sacred dip.
World's Largest Religious Festival Kicks Off in India
World's Largest Religious Festival Kicks Off in India
The Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj draws millions for spiritual cleansing
The Mahakumbh Mela, recognized as the world's largest religious festival, has officially begun in Prayagraj, India, drawing millions of Hindus for a profound spiritual experience. With approximately 400 million attendees expected over the 45-day celebration, the festival sees massive gatherings at Sangam, the confluence of the sacred Ganges, Yamuna rivers, and the mythical Saraswati. Participants are engaging in vibrant processions, rituals, and prayers, as authorities have constructed an extensive tent city to host pilgrims.
Thousands have already arrived in the northern Indian city of Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh, seeking to partake in this ancient tradition. Enthusiastic crowds are seen singing and dancing as they make their way to the site for their holy dip, a ritual meant to cleanse them of sins and grant spiritual salvation. As the festival progresses, the tent city sprawled over 4,000 hectares continues to accommodate the influx of visitors, highlighting the tremendous scale of this event.
Photographer Ankit Srinivas captures the essence of the festivities, showing groups of ash-smeared pilgrims performing rituals and brave devotees entering the frigid waters in devotion. Many holy men, including the notable naked Naga sadhus, partake in the event, showcasing their dedication by immersing themselves in the icy current.
Preparations for this grand event, which has been celebrated for centuries, began in September of last year. The festival, which will conclude on February 26, is a vibrant expression of spirituality and cultural heritage, uniting millions in devotion and communal celebration.
Thousands have already arrived in the northern Indian city of Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh, seeking to partake in this ancient tradition. Enthusiastic crowds are seen singing and dancing as they make their way to the site for their holy dip, a ritual meant to cleanse them of sins and grant spiritual salvation. As the festival progresses, the tent city sprawled over 4,000 hectares continues to accommodate the influx of visitors, highlighting the tremendous scale of this event.
Photographer Ankit Srinivas captures the essence of the festivities, showing groups of ash-smeared pilgrims performing rituals and brave devotees entering the frigid waters in devotion. Many holy men, including the notable naked Naga sadhus, partake in the event, showcasing their dedication by immersing themselves in the icy current.
Preparations for this grand event, which has been celebrated for centuries, began in September of last year. The festival, which will conclude on February 26, is a vibrant expression of spirituality and cultural heritage, uniting millions in devotion and communal celebration.
