The much-anticipated Maha Kumbh 2025 has commenced with grandeur as devotees participated in the morning Ganga Aarti at the sacred Sangam in Prayagraj. The aartis, a hallmark of the celebrations, extended beyond the renowned ghats to floodplains across the Sangam region.
A special Ganga Aarti, performed by women at Triveni Sangam, served as both a spiritual offering and a rehearsal for the Kumbh Mela. “Today’s aarti was a rehearsal. Boys will perform the Triveni Aarti, while girls will perform the Ganga Aarti. This is a message that Sanatana Dharma knows no boundaries,” said Pradeep Pandey, Prayagraj Teerth Purohit.
The Maha Kumbh, celebrated every 12 years, is set to attract millions of devotees between January 13 and February 26. Key bathing rituals, the Shahi Snans (royal baths), are scheduled for January 14 (Makar Sankranti), January 29 (Mauni Amavasya), and February 3 (Basant Panchami).
*Safety measures enhanced for devotees protection*
The district administration has rolled out extensive safety measures to ensure crowd management and prevent fire incidents. New fire stations have been inaugurated, with 365 vehicles deployed for rapid response. Awareness campaigns and mock drills are being conducted to educate attendees on handling emergencies.
ADG Fire Padmaja Chauhan highlighted the use of innovative tools, including firefighting robots, fire mist bikes, and ATVs capable of navigating challenging terrains. Firefighting boats, drawing water directly from the river, are set to be operational within a week.
Railways Introduce QR Code-Based Ticketing for Hassle-Free Travel
In a digital leap, the Prayagraj division of North Central Railway has introduced QR code-enabled ticketing to streamline the process for pilgrims. Railway personnel in green jackets with QR codes printed on their backs will assist visitors in downloading the UTS mobile app. This initiative aims to reduce station congestion and provide a seamless ticketing experience, with integrated digital payment options ensuring convenience for the millions expected to attend the Maha Kumbh.
(Inputs from ANI)
