118-Member Delegation from 77 Countries to Visit Mahakumbh in Prayagraj

A high-profile delegation comprising 118 members, including Heads of Mission, diplomats, and their spouses from 77 countries, is set to visit the Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj on Saturday. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed the visit during a press briefing, stating that foreign diplomats would witness the grand spiritual event on February 1.

As preparations continue for the visit, a three-member judicial commission is investigating the tragic stampede that took place on Mauni Amavasya during the ongoing Mahakumbh. The commission, which includes former judge Harsh Kumar, visited Swaroop Rani Nehru Hospital in Prayagraj on Friday to assess the condition of the victims. The stampede, which occurred during the sacred bathing ritual on Wednesday, resulted in 30 fatalities and left 60 others injured.

A government-issued notification stated that the commission is tasked with identifying the causes and circumstances that led to the disaster and will provide recommendations to prevent such incidents in the future. The panel is required to submit its report within a month.

Despite the tragedy, the Mahakumbh Mela 2025 continues to witness an overwhelming turnout of devotees. According to the Uttar Pradesh Information Department, over 296.4 million pilgrims have participated in the sacred bathing at the Triveni Sangam so far. Considered the world’s largest religious gathering, the Mahakumbh Mela is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and draws ascetics, saints, sadhus, and pilgrims from all walks of life.

The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, currently being held in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26, is a rare event that occurs once every 144 years, making it a spiritually significant occasion for millions.