As a Kashmiri Muslim, I had always heard stories about the Maha Kumbh Mela—the world’s largest spiritual gathering. But nothing could prepare me for the experience I had in 2025, when I was invited by my dear friend and brotherly figure, Yuvraj Srivastava, to witness this momentous event in Prayagraj.
At first, I hesitated. Being from Kashmir, a region with its own unique cultural and religious identity, I found myself questioning if this was an experience I should even pursue. But once I set foot in Prayagraj, my doubts melted away. What was meant to be a short two-day visit turned into an unforgettable week. The positive energy, the overwhelming spirituality, and the sense of unity I felt made me extend my stay. The atmosphere there was so peaceful and free from any negative energy that I didn’t want to go back home. But due to my prior commitments, I had to leave—though every part of me wanted to stay longer and soak in more of that divine environment.
Arriving at the Kumbh, I was astounded by the sight of people from all walks of life, from every corner of India and the world, gathered in one place for a shared purpose. It wasn’t just the scale of the event that struck me, but the way in which faith, tradition, and modernity came together seamlessly. From the sacred Shahi Snans (royal baths) to the vibrant Akhara processions, the Maha Kumbh Mela in 2025 beautifully fused ancient rituals with innovative technologies. The use of AI to predict and manage crowd surges, alongside large-scale sustainability initiatives, represented the future of cultural gatherings while preserving the deep-rooted traditions of the past.
The Kumbh Mela is based in Hindu mythology and is the world’s largest public gathering. It attracts ascetics, saints, sadhus, and millions of pilgrims from around the globe. The 2025 edition was particularly significant due to a rare alignment in the cosmos, occurring only once every 144 years. This once-in-a-lifetime event increased its cultural and spiritual importance, drawing people in search of purification and blessings.
Growing up in Kashmir, I had only heard about the Kumbh Mela through stories. When the invitation came, I could not resist. And what an experience it turned out to be! It wasn’t just a spiritual event—it was an education.
One of the first things that impressed me was the exceptional arrangements made by the Uttar Pradesh government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath ji. This was my first visit to Uttar Pradesh, and I was amazed by the scale of the facilities and arrangements. The government’s efforts to ensure that the event ran smoothly were truly remarkable. Yogi Adityanath ji and his administration have done marvellous work in making the Kumbh Mela a model of coordination, safety, and hospitality. From the cleanliness to the security measures, everything was top-notch.
Special attention was given to the cleanliness of the Ganga River, which was kept pristine despite the massive crowds. Thousands of sanitation workers were deployed to maintain a clean environment, and the Uttar Pradesh police were stationed everywhere, ensuring the safety of all pilgrims. Yogi Adityanath ji’s leadership in managing such a large-scale event was evident in every aspect of the Kumbh, from crowd management to ensuring that the basic amenities were met with precision and care.
One of the most impressive aspects was the establishment of a temporary city spanning over 4,000 hectares, equipped with 150,000 tents. There were enhanced sanitation facilities, improved transportation services, and medical camps that offered free healthcare to all. I personally experienced this when I felt unwell during my visit. The nearby health facility was well-equipped, and I received treatment without any charge. The medical staff’s professionalism and the prompt attention I received left me deeply impressed.
Another remarkable initiative was the “Vidya Kumbh” project launched by Yogi Adityanath ji’s government, which provided free education to the children of 15,000 sanitation workers. This initiative shows the administration’s commitment to not only organizing the event but also ensuring that the welfare of all workers and their families is prioritized.
As a Kashmiri Muslim, I was often greeted with warmth and respect by the people I met at the Kumbh, and many pilgrims expressed how blessed I was to be part of such a sacred event. The unity, respect, and sense of brotherhood were palpable, and I left Prayagraj with a heart full of gratitude for the kindness I had witnessed.
Reflecting on my time at the Maha Kumbh, I can say that it was an eye-opening experience. As a youth leader and social activist, I learned invaluable lessons in spirituality, discipline, and unity. The atmosphere of devotion and the sincerity of the devotees left a lasting impact on me. It was incredibly emotional to leave Prayagraj, not wanting to return home. But I am grateful for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness such a historic event and be a part of it.
For me, the Kumbh was more than just a religious gathering—it was a powerful lesson in human connection, respect for all cultures, and the unifying power of faith. The experience has transformed my perspective and strengthened my belief in the importance of unity, spirituality, and service to humanity.
As a Kashmiri, this journey to the Maha Kumbh Mela was an experience I will cherish forever and will always carry this experience with me, and as a social activist and youth leader, I am committed to applying the lessons I’ve learned in fostering unity and harmony within my own community. The work done by Yogi Adityanath ji and the Uttar Pradesh government was instrumental in making this grand event a success, and it’s a model of how public administration can work effectively to serve the needs of millions.
( Author is a Social Activist & Youth Leader Focused on Empowering Youth and Promoting Social Justice in Jammu & Kashmir. Email: [email protected])
