Faith and Politics Collide at Maha Kumbh Mela Amid Record Pilgrimage Turnout

The 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj has drawn over 600 million pilgrims, while political leaders clash over event management and past controversies.

Over 600 million pilgrims have participated in the 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, with the event set to conclude on February 26 during Mahashivratri.
Despite recent stampedes in Prayagraj and New Delhi, many families, driven by faith, braved safety concerns to partake in the holy dip at the Triveni Sangam.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath praised the event's management while criticizing the opposition for their handling of the 2013 Kumbh and their current critiques.
Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav responded to Adityanath's remarks, accusing him of insensitivity and politicizing a sacred event.
Prominent figures, including Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde and Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, commended the organization of the event and participated in rituals.