Maha Kumbh Mela Begins in Prayagraj

The Maha Kumbh Mela festival in Prayagraj, India, is set to commence, attracting an expected 400 million pilgrims over six weeks to bathe at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers. This massive gathering, described as the world's largest, occurs every 12 years and is particularly significant this year due to celestial alignments. Authorities are working to manage the influx by creating a temporary city with extensive facilities, including 150,000 tents and 3000 kitchens. Security will be bolstered by 40,000 police personnel and advanced AI surveillance systems. This edition is also seen as a critical test for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to demonstrate its capability in organizing such a large-scale event. The festival not only celebrates Hindu spirituality but also aims to promote India's cultural heritage on a global scale.