The Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj turned deadly on Wednesday as a massive influx of Hindu pilgrims aimed to partake in sacred rituals, resulting in a stampede that left many injured and fears of fatalities. This festival marks one of the most auspicious days in the Hindu calendar, drawing an estimated 400 million participants over six weeks. As crowds surged to wash away their sins in the holy waters, barriers collapsed, causing chaos among devotees, some of whom were caught sleeping on the ground.
The Maha Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years, is a critical spiritual event for Hindus who believe bathing at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Sarasvati river can bring salvation. The Uttar Pradesh government had taken precautions following previous tragedies, including a deadly crowd crush in 2013 that claimed 42 lives. Enhanced surveillance, crowd management, and a temporary city infrastructure had been set up to accommodate the influx.
Despite these efforts, reports indicate that festival employees directed crowds towards the rivers, inadvertently exacerbating the situation. As overwhelmed police struggled to maintain control, the call for safety measures resurfaced, highlighting the ongoing risks associated with such large-scale events. This is an evolving story, and updates will be made as more information becomes available.
