Kumbh Mela Set to Welcome 400 Million Pilgrims

Preparations are in full swing for the Kumbh Mela, a major Hindu religious festival set to take place in Prayagraj, India, from January 13 to February 26, 2024, expecting to draw between 350 to 400 million pilgrims. This event, which occurs every 12 years, coincides with a rare planetary alignment, enhancing its significance. Authorities are constructing a temporary city over 4,000 hectares, featuring extensive facilities including 150,000 toilets and massive kitchens to accommodate the vast influx of visitors. Spokesperson Vivek Chaturvedi emphasized the unique nature of the festival, stating that it is a self-invited gathering driven by faith without formal invitations. The Kumbh Mela is rooted in Hindu mythology, symbolizing the quest for spiritual liberation and has previously drawn record crowds, including 240 million attendees in 2019. The scale of the event is likened to setting up a new country, showcasing the logistical challenges and cultural importance of this monumental gathering.