Tens of thousands of naked Hindu ascetics and millions of pilgrims gathered in Prayagraj, India, for the Maha Kumbh festival, the largest religious congregation on Earth. The festival, held every 12 years, kicked off with a grand procession of ash-smeared holy men chanting religious slogans in praise of Lord Shiva.
More than 15 million pilgrims bathed in the sacred rivers on the first day of the festival, seeking to cleanse themselves of sins and break free from the cycle of rebirth. The event is expected to draw over 400 million people in the coming weeks, making it the most significant gathering of its kind.
The festival's origins lie in Hindu mythology, with believers attributing the festival to the god Vishnu's retrieval of the nectar of immortality. The Kumbh rotates among four pilgrimage sites, with this year's event in Prayagraj being the largest and most elaborate.
Authorities have set up a massive tented city along the riverbanks to accommodate participants, with facilities including thousands of kitchens and toilets. Security measures are in place, with 50,000 personnel ensuring crowd control and safety.
Hindu ascetics, known as Naga Sadhus, play a significant role in the festival, offering blessings and spiritual guidance to pilgrims. These ascetics, considered the soldiers of Hinduism, emphasize the importance of the holy waters in attaining salvation.
Throughout the festival, pilgrims engage in daily rituals, including river baths, prayers, meditation, and yoga sessions. The event is a culmination of spiritual pursuits, drawing people from various backgrounds with a shared purpose.
The Maha Kumbh festival showcases the deep faith and devotion of millions of Hindus, inspiring awe and admiration among observers. The event serves as a testament to the rich cultural and religious heritage of India, attracting visitors from around the world.
