Mahakumbh Mauni Amavasya 2025 Stampede: Baba Ramdev Offers Prayers for Injured

Mahakumbh Mauni Amavasya 2025 Stampede: Baba Ramdev Offers Prayers for Injured (Image: ANI)

A stampede-like situation at the Mahakumbh Mela during the Mauni Amavasya on Wednesday left several devotees injured, dampening what is otherwise one of the most auspicious days of the event. Millions of pilgrims had gathered at the confluence of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers to take a holy dip on the occasion of the Second Shahi Snan, leading to chaos after some barriers broke on the crowded Sangam routes.

Yoga guru Baba Ramdev, who was present at the Mahakumbh, offered prayers for the injured. Speaking to the media, he said, “We have taken a holy dip today, keeping the injured in our prayers and wishing for their speedy recovery. We performed a symbolic 'snan' and prayed for the well-being of all.”

Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Swami Avdheshanand Giri Maharaj of Juna Akhara also expressed his condolences to those affected by the incident. He remarked, “Today's snan was for the welfare of the world. I express my heartfelt sympathy for the injured. To honour this unfortunate incident, we have postponed our Shobha Yatra.”

Authorities stated that the situation arose due to the sheer volume of pilgrims. Special Executive Officer Akanksha Rana confirmed, “On the Sangam routes, a stampede-like situation occurred after some barriers broke. Some people have been injured and are under treatment. Thankfully, the situation is under control.”

Mauni Amavasya is one of the most spiritually significant days of the Mahakumbh, attracting crowds of nearly 80 to 100 million devotees. The Mahakumbh Mela, which occurs once every 12 years, is a major religious gathering in India, with other key dates this year including February 3 (Basant Panchami), February 12 (Maghi Purnima), and February 26 (Maha Shivaratri).

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah reached out to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, assuring full support from the central government to handle the situation and assist the injured.

The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced in managing such massive gatherings, even as the spiritual significance of the Mahakumbh continues to draw devotees from across the globe.