The grand Maha Kumbh Mela, a spiritual congregation that lasted for six weeks, is coming to a ceremonious end today, February 26, with the sacred Maha Shivratri Snan. Thousands of devotees have gathered at the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers, to take part in the final holy dip and seek divine blessings. Saints and seers have also participated in this momentous occasion, marking the culmination of one of the largest religious festivals in the world.
The Significance of Maha Shivratri in Maha Kumbh
Maha Shivratri holds a profound significance in Hinduism as it commemorates the divine marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Within the context of the Maha Kumbh Mela, this auspicious day carries even greater spiritual weight. Hindu mythology narrates that during the churning of the cosmic ocean (Samudra Manthan), Lord Shiva played a pivotal role in consuming the poison (Halahala) that emerged, thereby protecting the universe. This event is closely linked to the Kumbh Mela, as the Amrit Kumbh, or the pitcher of divine nectar, is a central element of the festival.
The Maha Kumbh Mela commenced on January 13, featuring six significant bathing rituals or ‘snan’ days. Among them, three were considered ‘Amrit Snan’ days: Paush Purnima (January 13), Makar Sankranti (January 14), Mauni Amavasya (January 29), Basant Panchami (February 3), Maghi Purnima (February 12) and Maha Shivratri (February 26).
With Maha Shivratri as the concluding snan, the Kumbh Mela has drawn millions of devotees seeking spiritual purification and divine grace.
Security and Crowd Management on the Final Day
Given the enormous influx of devotees on this last day of the festival, extensive security and crowd management measures have been implemented to ensure a smooth and peaceful event. The entire area has been designated a ‘no vehicle zone’ to regulate the movement of the crowds efficiently.
DIG Vaibhav Krishna has emphasized that no VIP treatment will be extended to any individual, ensuring that all pilgrims experience the festival with equality. The Uttar Pradesh government has also issued advisories urging devotees to use designated ghats near their respective entry points to prevent overcrowding. Those arriving from Uttar Jhunsi have been directed to Harishchandra Ghat and Old GT Ghat, while those from Dakshini Jhunsi should head to Arail Ghat. Similarly, pilgrims entering through the Pande area have been advised to take their holy dip at Bharadwaj Ghat, Nagavasuki Ghat, Mori Ghat, Kali Ghat, Ram Ghat, and Hanuman Ghat.
To enhance security, an impressive deployment of 37,000 police personnel and 14,000 home guards has been made. Additionally, the authorities have installed 2,750 AI-based CCTV cameras, and set up three Jal Police stations, 18 Jal Police control rooms, and 50 watchtowers to oversee safety measures. DIG Vaibhav Krishna has further stated that social media is being actively monitored 24×7 to curb the spread of misinformation about the event.
Indian Railways on High Alert for Smooth Transit
To prevent any mishaps like the stampede that occurred in previous years during Mauni Amavasya, Indian Railways has ramped up its operations. More than 350 special trains have been arranged from Prayagraj to various destinations to ensure that devotees can return home safely after completing their pilgrimage.
The North Central Railway, North Eastern Railway, and Northern Railway divisions are on high alert. According to NER CPRO Pankaj Kumar Singh, 60 trains, including ring rail services and long-distance trains, were already operational until 4 PM on Tuesday. Additionally, 25 extra special trains were introduced on Maha Shivratri. Enhanced security measures have been put in place at major railway stations, with Jhunsi station deploying 850 RPF personnel and 290 commercial staff, while Prayagraj Rambagh station has 500 RPF personnel and 250 commercial staff to manage the passenger flow.
Fire Safety Measures and CM Yogi Adityanath’s Greetings
Throughout the festival, several fire-related incidents were reported, but fortunately, no casualties occurred. To prevent any fire hazards on the final day, extensive firefighting arrangements have been established. Chief Fire Officer Pramod Sharma confirmed that 50 fire stations and 20 fire posts are on high alert to handle emergencies promptly.
As the Maha Kumbh Mela concludes, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath extended his heartfelt greetings to the devotees. He acknowledged the significance of Lord Shiva in Hindu traditions and emphasized how festivals like Kumbh Mela foster unity and cultural harmony.
“Lord Mahadev, the God of Gods, is universally revered among the masses. Festivals and celebrations strengthen our traditions and national unity. The Jyotirlingas across India stand as symbols of national integration,” CM Yogi Adityanath stated in his message.
As the six-week-long spiritual gathering draws to a close, devotees bid farewell to this once-in-a-lifetime experience with prayers, devotion, and hopes of witnessing the next Maha Kumbh in the years to come.
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With a passion for news writing and a deep interest in Journalism, Bowrna wants to write articles that create an impact. Not only writing, she also has a passion for voiceovers and also aspires to become a Radio Jockey in the future. When not writing, she likes to listen to songs and dance to her heart's content. She is proficient in English, Tamil and Hindi.
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