By TIOL News Service

NEW DELHI, JAN 21, 2025: FOREIGN journalists were briefed about the Mahakumbh's spiritual, cultural, and economic importance at the Ministry of External Affairs' Jawaharlal Nehru Bhawan, in New Delhi yesterday. The briefing witnessed the participation of senior officers from MEA and Government of Uttar Pradesh.

The event which is expected to attract well over a million devotees from around the world, was described as a symbol of religion, culture, and self-discovery. Officials from the UP government provided detailed information about the scale of the Mahakumbh 2025, emphasizing its status as the largest religious gathering in the world.

The programme, organized jointly by the Ministry of External Affairs and the UP government, highlighted the spiritual and cultural significance of the Mahakumbh. The event, scheduled from January 13 to February 26, 2025. It traces its origins to the mythological Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean), where drops of nectar fell at Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik. The sacred bath symbolizes soul purification and self-realization.

According to the government's estimate, more than 45 crore devotees are expected to attend the Mahakumbh 2025, including around 15 lakh foreign tourists. In comparison, 25 crore people attended the 2019 Kumbh Mela. The event is being promoted as a platform for unity and equality, bringing together people from diverse cultures and traditions.

While interacting with the foreign media, Uttar Pradesh officials noted that the Mahakumbh will surpass other major global events in terms of attendance. With 70 lakh attending the Rio Carnival, 25 lakh at Haj, and 72 lakh at Oktoberfest, the Mahakumbh 2025 stands unmatched with an anticipated 45 crore attendees. This highlights its unparalleled scale and global significance as one of the world's largest gatherings.

Mahakumbh 2025 is set to deliver a significant economic boost, contributing up to Rs. 2 lakh crore to India's economy. Uttar Pradesh's GDP is expected to grow by over 1%. Trade in daily essentials is projected at Rs. 17,310 crore, with the hotel and travel sectors reaching Rs. 2,800 crore. Religious materials and flowers are estimated to generate Rs. 2,000 crore and Rs. 800 crore, respectively.

To ensure a smooth and safe event, extensive infrastructure has been developed in Prayagraj. Key projects include 14 new flyovers, 9 permanent ghats, 7 new bus stations, and 12 kilometers of temporary ghats. Security measures have been ramped up, with 37,000 policemen, 14,000 home guards, and 2,750 AI-based CCTV cameras deployed.

Health services feature 6,000 beds, 43 hospitals, and air ambulances. Additionally, 10,200 sanitation workers and 1,800 Ganga Sevadut are deployed to maintain cleanliness during the event.

Mahakumbh 2025 also sees the participation of 13 Akharas, including the Kinnar Akhara, Dashnam Sanyasini Akhara, and women's Akharas. These Akharas symbolize gender equality and a progressive approach, and the event will promote unity across caste, religion, and cultural diversity. Beyond its religious significance, the Mahakumbh offers a platform to showcase India's rich cultural heritage and economic prosperity on the global stage.