They came from everywhere, the millions upon millions of pilgrims who flocked to the Mahakumbh 2025 for the holy dip. They braved all kinds of hardships and inconveniences without complaining. They slept on the streets or the riverbanks. They managed calls of nature or physical necessities somehow. They walked miles, carrying children and belongings on their backs. But they never complained. Rather they had an expression of unearthly joy and inspired devotion on their faces. I was at the Mahakumbh for three nights and four days. It was an experience of a lifetime.

The 2025 Mahakumbh Mela, which concluded on Mahashivaratri (February 26), will be remembered as the largest peaceful gathering in human history. With an estimated 600 million pilgrims having participated over its 45-day duration, the event’s scale alone stands as a remarkable testament to human organisation and shared faith. Yet, amid this extraordinary achievement, detractors were quick to highlight isolated incidents while overlooking the event’s monumental successes and profound social significance.

The critics, with their carping negativity, sought to defame India and Hindus by equating the Mahakumbh with superstition. Then they brought in science too. They said the water was dirty, so it was a health hazard to take the dip. They also pointed to the stampede which killed at least 30 and injured over 100. All this and much more could be said about the dangers and distress of the Mahakumbh.

ALSO READ:

© News18