World’s largest Religious Fest ‘Kumbh Mela 2019’ begins in Prayagraj

ONI Bureau:   World’s largest religious festival ‘Kumbh Mela 2019’ kick started on Tuesday on the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti, in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.

A large number of pilgrims gathered for the “Shahi Snan” (royal bath) on Makar Sankranti, considered among the most significant events of the Kumbh Mela.

Lakhs of devotees took a ‘holy dip’ amid chants of ‘Har Har Gange’ at the Sangam in the first day of the 50-day Kumbh Mela today.

Crores of Pilgrims from across the world are expected to take a dip in the holy river in Prayagraj in the next 49 days. Bathing would take place at 35 bathing ghats. The festival will continue till March 4.

As many as 30,000 police have been deployed to maintain law and order situation during the festival this year.

Referring to the theme of ‘Swachch Kumbh’, over one lakh toilets had been constructed, 17,000 dustbins were placed at various places and 25,000 sanitation staff deployed to maintain cleanliness.

As per the report, the UP Government has allocated Rs.4,200 crore for the Kumbh mela this year.