Mahakumbh: A confluence of tradition, technology and transcendence
Published: 15 Jan. 2025, 23:11

The author is the ambassador of India to the Republic of Korea.
As the Mahakumbh Mela kicked off in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh from Jan. 13 to Feb. 26, the anticipation surrounding this monumental event globally is palpable. Known as the festival of the Sacred Pitcher, Mahakumbh Mela is not just a religious gathering, it is the largest peaceful congregation of pilgrims on the planet, with estimates suggesting that around 400 million devotees will participate this year. This extraordinary event holds profound historic and spiritual significance, drawing people from all walks of life to partake in its rituals and festivities.
At the heart of the Mahakumbh Mela lies the sacred act of bathing in the confluence of three holy rivers: the Ganga, the Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati. For Hindu pilgrims, this ritual is a vital step in their spiritual journey, symbolizing the pursuit of moksha, or liberation from the cycle of rebirth. The festival’s timing is meticulously calculated based on the positions of celestial bodies, particularly the Sun, Moon and Jupiter. This astrological precision reflects the ancient wisdom of Indian astronomy, which recognized Jupiter’s 12-year rotation around the Sun — an insight that has guided the organization of the Kumbh Mela for centuries.
The origins of this festival are steeped in mythology, with the tale of the “Samudra Mathan,” or the churning of the ocean, serving as a cornerstone of Indian cultural consciousness. The story recounts the epic battle between gods and demons over the “pitcher of nectar,” which ultimately led to the establishment of four sacred sites — Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain and Nashik — where the Kumbh Mela is celebrated in rotation every 12 years. Due to the rare celestial alignment this year, which occurs only once in 144 years, the festival is called "Maha Kumbh" Mela, with the prefix maha signifying its rarity and extra special significance.
While the festival’s roots stretch back thousands of years, its relevance remains undiminished in the modern era. The Mahakumbh Mela has proven to be “antifragile,” as Naseem Nicholas Taleb might have characterized it, thriving amid the rapid changes of contemporary life. The 2025 gathering promises to be a remarkable blend of tradition and technology, demonstrating how ancient rituals can coexist with modern advancements.
The logistic arrangements for Mahakumbh 2025 are nothing short of monumental. The Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) will serve as the operational nerve center, ensuring that every aspect of this grand gathering runs smoothly. A temporary city, aptly named Mahakumbh Nagar, is being constructed to accommodate the influx of pilgrims, featuring thousands of tents and comfortable accommodations. Visitors can conveniently book their stays online, reflecting the festival’s embrace of digital technology.
In a bid to enhance safety and management, the festival is leveraging cutting-edge technologies. AI-powered surveillance cameras will monitor the vast crowds, ensuring round-the-clock security. Social media platforms such as Facebook and X are being leveraged to assist in reuniting families, providing real-time support for those who may become separated in the throng of pilgrims. Additionally, a cyber police station will combat online threats, safeguarding attendees from scams and fraudulent activities.
QR codes will be available to help attendees navigate the site and access emergency assistance, while the “Bhashini App” will enable multilingual communication between officials and visitors. The Mahakumbh Mela is also committed to sustainability. Solar power will illuminate the festival grounds, and there will be a strong emphasis on reusable materials, with a ban on single-use plastics.
The Mahakumbh Mela stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith and community. It is an invitation to experience the richness of Indian culture, spirituality and tradition. Join the millions who will gather at the confluence of the holy rivers in Prayagraj, and embark on a journey of renewal and enlightenment at Mahakumbh 2025.
Experience a unique blend of history, spirituality and innovation, as India welcomes you to one of the most significant events on Earth.
with the Korea JoongAng Daily
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