LUCKNOW: Ahead of the Mahakumbh 2025 at Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh’s Minister for Tourism and Culture, Jaiveer Singh, shared details about the preparations for the world’s largest religious, spiritual, and cultural gathering on Thursday.
Addressing a press conference , Jaiveer Singh said, “Mahakumbh symbolizes the essence of Indian faith and spirituality, with an estimated 500 million devotees from across the globe expected to participate. To ensure a holistic experience for the pilgrims and travelers a “spiritual triangle” connecting Kashi, Ayodhya, and Prayagraj has been introduced to offer seamless pilgrimage tours. He also highlighted that Mahakumbh-2025 will host a congregation of artists from January 16 to February 26 in Prayagraj. Renowned and award-winning artists, including Padma Shri and Padma Vibhushan recipients, will perform in diverse languages and genres over 43 days. The event aims to transform Prayagraj into a cultural hub, offering visitors a glimpse into India’s rich heritage.”
The minister also stated that since people from all across the world are expected at the Mahakumbh, a comprehensive security plan has been developed, including air, ground, and water surveillance.
Principal Secretary for Tourism and Culture, Mukesh Kumar Meshram, informed that Mahakumbh-2025 will run from January 13 to February 26. Comprehensive arrangements have been made for the accommodation, travel, and convenience of devotees. “A dedicated website and app have been launched to provide all necessary information. A Chatbot service has also been introduced for people seeking instant answers to frequently asked questions. QR codes for bookings and downloading app are also being popularized to avoid digitals scams. For any assistance related to digital frauds, a cyber-police station has also been launched at Mahakumbh city”, he said.
A parking facility for 5 lakh cars and extended ghats spanning 12 kilometres have been arranged. Cultural programs will be held at the grand Ganga Pandal with a capacity of 10,000 people, along with 20 smaller stages across Prayagraj with a capacity of 1000 to 2000 people at a time.
Sanya Chhabra, Managing Director at Uttar Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation shared details about the establishment of premium tent city with modern facilities. Cultural events, Yagyashalas, display of ODOP products, regional handicraft products and curated tours of Akhadas and Kalpvasis experience will also be provided. An eight minute helicopter joyride has also been introduced, priced at Rs 3,000 per person. Dome styled luxury tents have been introduced at the Mahakumbh where the tents will have internal stairs for a mesmerizing sky view.”
Other senior officials, including Special Secretaries for Tourism and Culture, were present during the briefing.
The Minister urged the media and citizens to actively promote and market Mahakumbh-2025, enhancing the global stature of the state and its spiritual significance. “The Uttar Pradesh government is committed to ensuring that every devotee returns with a sense of spiritual fulfilment and cultural pride”, added Jaiveer Singh.
