Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh: The Maha Kumbh Mela, the world’s largest religious gathering, is set to begin on January 13, 2025, in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. With over 400 million pilgrims expected to attend, the event is breaking records and setting new standards in crowd management with advanced technology and upgraded infrastructure.
This 45-day Hindu pilgrimage, held every 12 years, will feature rituals such as sacred bathing in the Ganga and Yamuna rivers. This year, preparations include a massive investment of ₹7,000 crore (approximately $813 million) to enhance facilities, ranging from AI-driven surveillance systems to underwater drones and over 150,000 temporary toilets.
Security measures have been significantly upgraded. AI-enabled cameras will monitor crowd density and detect potential breaches, while face recognition systems at entry points ensure streamlined access. Pilgrims can also use AI-powered parking systems to pre-book spaces, while special transportation services, including thousands of buses and trains, will cater to the influx of visitors.
Economically, the Maha Kumbh is projected to contribute ₹2 lakh crore (~$23 billion) to the economy. This includes revenue from accommodations, transportation, and daily essentials like bottled water and flowers, which alone are expected to generate thousands of crores. For comparison, the 2013 Maha Kumbh generated ₹12,000 crore, and the 2019 Ardh Kumbh raised ₹1.2 lakh crore.
While the Kumbh Mela has faced challenges in the past, such as stampedes and logistical bottlenecks, this year’s event has undergone a complete transformation. It is now a global example of crowd management, logistics, and sustainable planning, attracting researchers from institutions worldwide to study its innovative practices.
The Maha Kumbh continues to be a symbol of spiritual devotion and cultural heritage while showcasing India’s capability to blend tradition with modernity. As millions prepare to gather in Prayagraj, this year’s event promises to leave a lasting impression of faith, innovation, and resilience.
