Prayagraj, the sacred city at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers, is preparing to host one of the world’s most awe-inspiring spectacles: the Maha Kumbh 2025. Rooted in spiritual traditions and mythological significance, the Kumbh Mela transcends its religious roots to become a global celebration of humanity, culture, and heritage.
The Maha Kumbh, running from January 13 to February 26, 2025, in the city formerly called Allahabad in Uttar Pradesh, promises to elevate this ancient tradition with an unparalleled blend of spirituality and artistic brilliance, offering a transformative experience for millions of devotees and visitors.
The eternal significance of Prayagraj and the Kumbh Mela
Prayagraj, known as Tirthraj or the king of pilgrimages, has been a spiritual and cultural beacon for millennia. Revered as the site where Brahma performed the first yagna and where Lord Shiva danced his cosmic tandava dance, the city is imbued with legends that connect it to the divine. The Akshayavat, an ancient banyan tree believed to have survived the great deluge, stands as a testament to the city’s sacred lore.
The Kumbh Mela itself is rooted in the celestial legend of the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean), during which drops of amrit (nectar of immortality) fell on Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik. The other three also host Kumbh Melas, but Prayagraj is special. For Maha Kumbh every 12 years, Triveni Sangam is said to transform into the nectar’s earthly manifestation during the Kumbh there, drawing millions of pilgrims who seek liberation from the cycle of life and death.
The Maha Kumbh 2025 Mela is expected to attract 400 million visitors and include dignitaries from the United States, Israel, France, and many other countries.
An unprecedented celebration
The Yogi Adityanath government in the state has envisioned Maha Kumbh 2025 as a spiritual gathering and a grand cultural extravaganza that bridges India’s ancient traditions with contemporary artistic expressions. It promises to leave an indelible mark on history, transforming Prayagraj into a kaleidoscope of devotion, art, and entertainment.
The procession of sadhus and saints
Kumbh Melas are a spectacle. At the start of the Kumbh, magnificent processions of saints, their disciples, and members of various Akharas (religious orders) take part in the ritual of Shahi Snan. Only after their turn are others allowed to take the holy bath, believing that taking the dip after them will give them the added advantage of the essence of the holy deeds and thoughts of the holy saints.
Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj, formerly Allahabad, is more than a religious or spiritual event—it is a vibrant blend of devotion, mythology, and cultural brilliance, featuring iconic performances.
A star-studded cultural spectacle
The Uttar Pradesh Culture Department, in collaboration with the central Ministry of Culture, has curated a breathtaking lineup of performances for the specially constructed Ganga Pandal, which has a seating capacity of 10,000. The events are designed to elevate the spiritual ambiance of the Maha Kumbh and offer a window into India’s mythological, musical, and artistic heritage.
Mythological storytelling
Prominent artists will bring India’s timeless epics to life through captivating performances:
• Hema Malini, celebrated actress and Member of Parliament, will portray the divine tale of Ganga Avtaran on January 26, depicting the descent of the holy river.
• Actor Ashutosh Rana will present Humare Ram, on January 25, portraying the role of Ravan in this dramatic production.
• Puneet Issar, with his commanding stage presence, will transport audiences into the world of the Mahabharata on February 21.
• On February 8, Bhojpuri and Bollywood actor Ravi Kishan will perform Shiv Tandava, embodying Lord Shiva’s cosmic energy.
Ramlilas with a global touch
This year’s Maha Kumbh will host Ramlilas unlike any other. On January 18 and February 14, the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) will present the story of Ram infused with folk dances and traditions from around the globe. The renowned Shriram Bharatiya Kala Kendra will perform their iconic Ramlila on February 15-16, blending theatrical brilliance with devotional fervor.
At Triveni Sangam, the confluence of three holy rivers where immortality flows, millions gather to cleanse their souls and celebrate their heritage through faith, music, and art.
A musical journey through devotion
Maha Kumbh 2025 boasts a stellar musical lineup, featuring some of India’s finest artists:
• Shankar Mahadevan, Kailash Kher, Sonu Nigam, Richa Sharma, Jubin Nautiyal, and Shreya Ghoshal will perform devotional and spiritual renditions that promise to resonate deeply with audiences.
• Grammy Award-winning composer Ricky Kej will take the stage on January 17, while Maithili Thakur, known for her folk melodies, will perform on January 20.
• Classical maestro Rakesh Chaurasia will enchant listeners with a soulful flute recital on February 18.
• Bands like Indian Ocean (February 7), Agni Band (February 17), and Maati Bani (February 19) will add contemporary flavors to the festivities.
• Thaikkudam Bridge and Kabira Band will conclude the musical journey with performances on February 20 and 22, respectively.
Folk heritage and dance drama
The Maha Kumbh will celebrate India’s diverse artistic heritage through a series of unique performances:
• Odisha’s Prince Group will showcase Dashavatar on January 11, while Manipur’s Bastar Band and Delhi’s Shrinkhala Dance Academy will present folk traditions on January 21 and 27, respectively.
• Cultural evenings, such as UP Folk Night on January 24, will feature performances from artists across India, highlighting the nation’s rich regional traditions.
• Kathak dance dramas, choreographed by some of India’s leading artists, will set the tone for the festival starting January 10.
Poetry, instrumental magic, and more
Maha Kumbh 2025 will feature prominent poets from across India on January 20, adding a literary and musical dimension. On January 21, Rajesh Prasanna will present rare folk instruments, and a lineup of cultural performances by Mathura’s Madhava Band and Agra’s Crazy Hoppers will offer a unique artistic experience.
Beyond a religious gathering
The Maha Kumbh 2025 is more than just a pilgrimage; it celebrates India’s unity in diversity, artistic brilliance, and spiritual core. The mega event, organized by the Uttar Pradesh government, is set to become an unforgettable experience that merges ancient traditions with modern creativity.
As millions of devotees prepare to take the holy dip at the Triveni Sangam, the cultural and artistic offerings of the Maha Kumbh will transform their spiritual journey into a multi-dimensional celebration. Prayagraj, with its eternal allure, will once again stand as a testament to India’s unparalleled legacy of faith, art, and humanity.
In the sacred waters of the Sangam, where the nectar of immortality flows, Maha Kumbh 2025 will unite hearts, inspire minds, and uplift souls — a timeless confluence of belief and celebration.
Best days to visit and tent city to stay
The most significant ritual at Kumbh is taking a holy dip in the sacred waters. Although any day is fine for this ritual, Paush Purnima on January 13 and Makar Sankranti on January 14, right at the start of the Mela, are among the specific auspicious dates.
In addition to hotels that suit every budget in Allahabad, a sprawling tent city is being erected near the Triveni Sangam. Tens of thousands will be accommodated there, offering comfortable stays in basic tents or luxury setups with private amenities. Pilgrims and tourists will have easy access to rituals, sacred baths, and spiritual events and the chance to immerse themselves in the festival’s vibrant atmosphere and cultural diversity.
For more information: Prayagraj Mela Authority, Parade Ground,
Daraganj, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh – 211006; Ph: 0532-2504011, 0532-2500775; email: info.mahakumbh25@gmail.com
The cultural programs include Hema Malini’s Ganga Avataran, which she performed at Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj in 2019, link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iU6kcMhzlpw
