The Prime Minister recently inaugurated and launched 167 development projects worth ₹5,500 crore in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, as part of preparations for Maha Kumbh 2025. 

Key Highlights of PM Address on Maha Kumbh

• Describing the event as a “Maha Yagya of unity,” the PM highlighted its significance in promoting spiritual, cultural, and social cohesion while showcasing India’s rich traditions to the world.
• A multilingual AI-powered chatbot, Sah’AI’yak, launched to assist devotees in 11 Indian languages.
• He emphasized the historical importance of Prayagraj  including its association with Lord Ram’s journey and sites like Akshay Vat and Saraswati Koop.

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About Maha Kumbh Mela

• The Maha Kumbh Mela is a sacred pilgrimage celebrated four times over 12 years, known as the world’s largest peaceful gathering. 
• Millions of pilgrims attend to bathe in holy rivers, seeking spiritual liberation and cleansing of sins.
• Historical Background: The founding myth of the Kumbh Mela points to the Puranas (compilations of ancient legends).
  • It is widely believed that Lord Vishnu (disguised as the enchantress ‘Mohini’) whisked the Kumbh out of the grasp of the covetous demons who had tried to claim it.
• The origins of the Kumbh Mela date back thousands of years, with references from the Maurya and Gupta periods (4th century BCE to 6th century CE).
  • It was supported by royal dynasties such as the Cholas, Vijayanagar Empire, Delhi Sultanate, and Mughals, including Emperor Akbar.
• The origin of Maha Kumbh Mela was transcribed by the 8th-century philosopher Adi Shankaracharya.
• Documented by British administrators like James Prinsep in the 19th century, it gained greater significance post-independence, symbolizing unity and cultural heritage.
• Recognized by UNESCO in 2017 as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity, it remains a testament to India’s enduring traditions.

Types of Kumbh Melas in India

India hosts four types of Kumbh Melas, each occurring at different sacred locations:

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Significance of Maha Kumbh 2025

• Unity in Diversity: Maha Kumbh brings together millions of people from varied castes, creeds, and walks of life, creating a platform for social harmony and cultural exchange.
• Economic Impact: The event fosters economic empowerment through tourism, local businesses, and employment opportunities.
  • The 45-day mega religious event is expected to be thrice the size and budget of the 2012 Maha Kumbh
• Global Spiritual Event: With millions of devotees attending daily, Maha Kumbh is one of the largest gatherings in the world, symbolizing India’s spiritual prominence.
• Historic and Mythological Relevance: Prayagraj, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers, holds immense spiritual importance, often referred to as the “king of pilgrimage sites” in Indian scriptures.