An unprecedented number of devotees thronged Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh Mela on the sacred day of Maha Shivratri. Lakhs of pilgrims gathered to take a holy dip in the Ganges and perform Jalabhishek (water offering) to Lord Shiva.
Prayagraj: On the auspicious day of Maha Shivratri, also marking the final bathing festival of Kumbh Mela 2025, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath oversaw the arrangements from a control room situated at the Gorakhnath Temple. He arrived at the control room at 4 AM and began monitoring the situation through live feeds of the ongoing bathing rituals in Prayagraj. The Chief Minister instructed authorities to ensure devotees faced no difficulties and that all security and traffic management systems functioned smoothly.
Chief Minister's Strict Instructions
On the eve of Maha Shivratri, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath arrived in Gorakhpur and held a review meeting with officials to assess the festival preparations. He issued strict instructions to ensure security, cleanliness, and efficient traffic management. He stated, "The faith of the devotees is paramount; no one should face any inconvenience."
Special Arrangements for Devotees' Convenience
* Security Arrangements: The deployment of police and traffic personnel has been increased.
* Cleanliness Drive: The Municipal Corporation and Panchayati Raj Department ensured the cleanliness of Shiva temples and ghats.
* Traffic Management: Barricading and alternative traffic routes have been implemented on major roads.
* Women's Safety: A special deployment of women police personnel and help desks have been established.
Police Administration's Appeal
Prayagraj's Deputy SP, Sia Ram, appealed to devotees to maintain restraint and order. He stated, "Adequate security measures have been put in place in the Kumbh area. Devotees should bathe peacefully and follow the administration's instructions." The pilgrims experienced a sense of spiritual cleansing by immersing themselves in the holy waters of the Ganges on Maha Shivratri.
The chants of "Har Har Mahadev" resonated throughout, creating a devout atmosphere. Devotees performed special pujas and Rudrabhishek at Shiva temples, spreading an aura of reverence and devotion. This sacred day of Maha Shivratri witnessed a beautiful synergy of faith and administrative management, ensuring a smooth and comfortable experience for all devotees.
