Maha Kumbh: 4.55 Million Devotees Take Holy Dip at Triveni Sangam

Maha Kumbh Mela has brought in a large number of devotees to Prayagraj where they are taking a holy dip at Triveni Sangam. As of 8 AM on Tuesday, over 4.55 crore people including 1 crore Kalpawasis have taken a holy dip at the confluence of Ganga and Yamuna rivers, as per Uttar Pradesh Information Department.

Meanwhile, over 14.76 crore people have taken a dip at the confluence of Ganga and Yamuna rivers since January 13, as per Uttar Pradesh Information Department.

Till now several Union Ministers including Rajnath Singh and Kiren Rijiju have visited Maha Kumbh and have taken a dip at Triveni Sangam.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also took a holy dip at Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh on Monday. Shah was accompanied by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Baba Ram Dev and other saints and sages.

The religious congregation has also seen an extraordinary influx of devotees from around the world.

Antonio, a pilgrim from Italy has finally fulfilled his decade long dream of attending Kumbh Mela in India.

"I feel great, I'll say," Antonio said, "There's a lot of blessings in this place. I was looking forward to this. I wanted to visit for over 10 years. And finally, I'm here."

Antonio's fascination with India's spiritual heritage began years ago. He had previously undertaken a 2,000 km long pilgrimage on foot, known as a "pad-yatra" which deepened his understanding and devotion to Indian saints.

Esther, a pilgrim from Spain has found herself immersed in the spiritual energy of Kumbh Mela. Initially she felt overwhelmed by the large crowds but as the day progressed she felt transformed. "I'm feeling great right now," Esther said.

Maha Kumbh is held every 12 years and is being held in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26.

As per tradition, pilgrims flock to the Sangam - the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati (now extinct) rivers to take the holy dip believed to absolve sins and grant moksha (liberation).

The event started on January 13 and will continue till February 26. Key bathing dates include January 29 (Mauni Amavasya - Second Shahi Snan), February 3 (Basant Panchami - Third Shahi Snan), February 12 (Maghi Purnima) and February 26 (Maha Shivaratri).

Maha Kumbh Mela is expected to see over 45 crore visitors, a historic occasion for India.