From millions to silence: Emptiness grips Prayagraj's Sangam as Maha Kumbh Mela buzz fades

Prayagraj (Image: PTI)

As the grand Maha Kumbh Mela comes to an end, the residents of Prayagraj have a sense of emptiness and nostalgia.

For 45 days, the city that hosted millions of devotees from across the world has now suddenly come to a halt. The temporary tent city that hosted millions of pilgrims is being dismantled as the streets near the Sangam, filled with sadhus, religious processions, and devotees, return to normal.

For over one and a half months, many locals opened their homes for the pilgrims. But now they are trying to adjust to this sudden sense of quiet. While the businesses are witnessing a drop.

"With the festival over, we will miss the spotlight," said Gopesh Tripathi, a local businessman, as quoted by the Times of India. He also said that Prayagraj was the centre of global attention for the last 45 days.

Kumbh was the place for many family reunions as well. In this age dominated by digital connections, the grand festival was also a means of returning to traditional bonds.

While many mourn the end of the grand event, others welcome the return to normal life. Due to the huge traffic across the city, people faced difficulties in conveyance, and it affected the movement of essential goods as well.

The local economy is also feeling the impact of the pilgrims’ departure from the holy city. Auto-rickshaw and cycle rickshaw drivers, who saw a surge in passengers, are now witnessing a decline. Shopkeepers, street vendors, and food stall owners stare at the fall in business.

Makeshift stalls selling religious items, prasad, and essentials are being packed up. Hotels and dharamshalas now report fewer guests.

Prayagraj is gradually returning to its everyday rhythm—leaving behind cherished memories of one of the world's largest spiritual gatherings.