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Mahakumbh, Celebration of spiritual grandeur and cultural heritage


Prayagraj, the epicentre of Maha Kumbh, is a city steeped in history and spirituality. The city's significance as a pilgrimage site, aptly named 'Tirthraj' or the King of Pilgrimage Sites, is well documented in ancient texts and travelogues.

The Chinese traveller Xuanzang, who visited India in the 7th century, described Prayagraj as a region of immense natural beauty, prosperity, and cultural depth. His observations about the Triveni Sangam and the rituals performed there resonate with the spiritual fervour of Maha Kumbh.

Xuanzang’s writings highlight the Triveni Sangam as a faith and community meeting point. He described the grand festivals held in Prayagraj, attended by over five lakh people, including rulers and wealthy merchants, who bathed in the sacred waters and donated generously. This tradition continues to thrive, as millions gather at the Sangam to cleanse their souls and partake in an ancient ritual that transcends time.

The success of the Kumbh Mela 2019 in Prayagraj transcended its spiritual and cultural significance, garnering recognition, and accolades on various fronts. The event was a testament to the devotion of millions and a showcase of organizational excellence and global appreciation. Kumbh Mela 2019 successfully attracted praise from governments and ambassadors of various countries. Further, it set three Guinness World Records and won accolades from Heads of Missions in 70 countries.

Maha Kumbh 2025 is set to establish several world records this time around. The fair authority has planned to achieve four different world records in various categories, with a strong possibility of setting a record for the largest gathering of devotees at a single event.

Additionally, a world record for eye tests and spectacle distribution is also anticipated. This will be the first time that eye tests for five lakh people and the distribution of three lakh spectacles will take place at a single event. For this purpose, a grand ‘Netra Kumbh’ has been set up in Sector Five near Nagvasuki, spanning approximately 10 acres. The previous Netra Kumbh earned a place in the Limca Book of Records for its achievements. This year’s Netra Kumbh aims to secure a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records by setting even higher benchmarks.

To position Uttar Pradesh as a premier global tourism destination, the state government is showcasing Maha Kumbh 2025 at prestigious international tourism trade fairs in Madrid, Spain, and Berlin, Germany. The International Tourism Trade Fair, scheduled for January 24–28, and the ITB Berlin Fair from March 4–6, will host thematic pavilions dedicated to Maha Kumbh and Uttar Pradesh's cultural legacy. These 40-square-meter pavilions will encapsulate the essence of the state’s heritage and invite global tourists to witness the grandeur of the world's largest religious gathering.

The inclusion of VVIP lounges for B2B and B2C sessions highlights the emphasis on strategic engagement with international stakeholders. The distribution of promotional materials in multiple languages ensures that Maha Kumbh’s spiritual and cultural significance resonates with diverse audiences.

Maha Kumbh is more than an event; it is a living heritage that binds generations through shared beliefs and traditions. It is an experience that transforms not only the pilgrims but also the observers who witness the power of collective faith. For centuries, Prayagraj has drawn people from across the globe, including scholars, travellers, and spiritual seekers. Maha Kumbh 2025 aims to rekindle this historical connection, inviting the world to rediscover the universal values of peace, harmony, and coexistence.

In celebrating Maha Kumbh, we celebrate the essence of India, a land where the sacred and the secular harmoniously coexist, inspiring the world to embark on its journey of discovery.