- By Priyanka Koul
- Mon, 13 Jan 2025 07:38 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Maha Kumbh 2025: The Maha Kumbh Mela, held once every 12 years, has returned to the sacred banks of the Sangam in Prayagraj. Monday marked the first bathing day of the event, coinciding with Paush Purnima. Meanwhile, a viral video of Mahakal Giri Baba striking a YouTuber with tongs during an interview has sparked controversy online.
Lakhs of devotees gathered at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers to take a holy dip, marking the start of this grand spiritual festival.
The ghats were not only crowded with pilgrims but also witnessed a congregation of sadhus and babas from across India, drawing significant attention from media outlets and YouTubers.
Viral Baba Video Sparks Controversy
Amid the festivities, a video featuring a sadhu, Mahakal Giri Baba, also known as Hatha Yogi, has gone viral on social media. In the footage, the baba is seen reacting aggressively to a YouTuber's questions, striking him with tongs. The incident has sparked mixed reactions online, with some questioning the behavior of both the baba and the YouTuber.
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Maha Kumbh Mela: A Grand Spiritual Gathering
The Uttar Pradesh government has made extensive arrangements to ensure smooth crowd management during the Mela, which is expected to witness a staggering 40 to 45 crore visitors by the time it concludes on February 26. Key measures include:
β- Bhula-Bhatkaβ Camps: To assist devotees who may get separated from their groups.
- Police Assistance Centres: Set up to address safety concerns and guide pilgrims.
- Watchtowers: Erected for better surveillance and crowd control.
Volunteers and police officers are tirelessly working at the ghats to ensure a safe and seamless experience for devotees.
The Maha Kumbh is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, celebrated for its spiritual and cultural significance. The Paush Purnima bathing festival marked the beginning of the Mela, which will feature several other auspicious bathing dates before its conclusion.
