Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: International Devotees Experience India's Rich Spiritual Heritage

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: International Devotees Experience India's Rich Spiritual Heritage (Image: ANI)

The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, a grand spiritual event that attracts millions of pilgrims from across the globe, is currently at its peak in the holy city of Prayagraj. The sacred gathering at the Triveni Sangam, where the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers converge, has not only drawn Indian devotees but also international visitors who are enthralled by the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of India.

Foreign attendees have expressed deep admiration for the event, calling it a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Esther, a visitor from Mexico, shared her excitement, saying, “It’s an amazing and fantastic experience. The devotion and tradition in this land are incredibly strong.” She described her joy in participating in rituals like collecting sacred water from the Ganga and learning chants of Lord Shiva, including "Om Namah Shivay."

Esther revealed that her trip was carefully planned around the Maha Kumbh Mela. “As soon as we learned about it, we made it a priority to be here. It’s something we will cherish forever,” she added, smiling warmly as she recounted her experiences of chanting, mingling with locals, and being part of the spiritual fervour.

Mayi, another visitor from France, described her experience as deeply emotional and spiritually uplifting. “The Maha Kumbh Mela is unique. It’s like a jewel – something truly precious. Meeting people, witnessing their devotion, and immersing myself in this sacred tradition has been extraordinary,” she said.

Mayi spoke passionately about the sacred dip at the Sangam, emphasising how the ritual felt transformative. She noted, “This tradition is not just important for India but for the world. It’s a world heritage that must continue for generations.”

Despite the chilly haze in Prayagraj, Mayi found the atmosphere warm and inviting. She expressed her hope that the tradition of the Maha Kumbh Mela endures, as she likely won’t be able to witness the event again.

The Maha Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years at one of four sacred locations in India, is known as the world’s largest spiritual congregation. In 2025, the Poorna Kumbh will continue until February 26, allowing millions more to participate in this divine celebration.

So far, over 70 million devotees have taken part in the holy event, with more than 35 million pilgrims participating on Makar Sankranti alone. On the fourth day, over 3 million devotees, including Kalpvasis and international visitors, performed the holy dip at the Sangam.

The event also includes visits to the akhadas of Naga Sadhus, where foreign devotees seek blessings and witness age-old ascetic traditions. The chants of “Radhe Radhe” echo through the air, uniting people from diverse cultures in a shared spiritual journey.

The Maha Kumbh Mela is not just a festival; it’s a powerful reminder of India’s ancient traditions, spiritual vibrancy, and ability to bring people together in a collective celebration of faith and humanity.