Akhilesh Yadav Calls for Maha Kumbh Extension as Millions Continue to Arrive

As millions of devotees continue to flock to Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav has urged the Uttar Pradesh government to extend the event’s duration, citing the unprecedented turnout and logistical challenges faced by attendees.

Mr. Yadav highlighted that in previous editions of the Kumbh Mela, the event traditionally lasted for 75 days, whereas this year’s Maha Kumbh is significantly shorter. The festival began on January 13 and is scheduled to conclude on February 26, coinciding with Maha Shivaratri.

“Even now, many people want to go to the Maha Kumbh but cannot. In such a situation, the government should extend the time limit of the Maha Kumbh,” Yadav stated, emphasizing the overwhelming demand from devotees still trying to reach the sacred event.

Massive Crowds and Logistical Challenges at Maha Kumbh

Visuals circulating on social media and news platforms depict packed trains, congested highways, and massive crowds making their way to the Maha Kumbh.

Severe Traffic Congestion: Earlier this week, roads leading to the Maha Kumbh were clogged for kilometers, causing significant delays for travelers.
Railway Overload: Prayagraj Sangam Railway Station was forced to shut down temporarily due to unmanageable crowds, further complicating transportation logistics.
Record-breaking Participation: As per official state government data, over 50 crore devotees have already taken the holy dip at the Sangam—a figure surpassing the combined populations of Russia and the United States.

Despite extensive planning and security measures, the sheer volume of attendees has created immense logistical strain, prompting calls for an extended window to accommodate more pilgrims.

Stampede Controversy: Akhilesh Yadav Accuses Government of Concealment

In addition to requesting an extension, Akhilesh Yadav accused the Uttar Pradesh government of concealing the actual number of deaths resulting from a stampede at the Maha Kumbh last month.

While official figures remain undisclosed, reports suggest several casualties and injuries, raising concerns over crowd management and emergency response. Mr. Yadav’s allegations have intensified political discourse around the handling of this year’s Maha Kumbh, with opposition leaders questioning the state’s transparency in reporting incidents.

The Maha Kumbh 2025: A Historic Gathering

The Maha Kumbh Mela, recognized as the world’s largest spiritual gathering, is held every 12 years in Prayagraj, attracting millions of devotees from across the globe. The festival’s significance lies in the ritualistic holy dip at the Sangam, the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers.

Current Schedule: January 13 February 26, 2025
Key Bathing Dates: The Maha Shivaratri Snan on February 26 marks the event’s grand conclusion.
Estimated Footfall: Over 100 million pilgrims are expected by the festival’s end.

The Uttar Pradesh government has deployed massive security forces, sanitation services, and transportation support, but infrastructure bottlenecks continue to pose challenges in managing the influx of devotees.

Will the Government Extend the Maha Kumbh?

While the state government has not yet responded to Yadav’s extension request, the decision could hinge on:

Crowd Management Capabilities: If congestion continues, an extension could help ease the burden on infrastructure and security personnel.
Religious Sentiments & Public Demand: Extending the Maha Kumbh could accommodate more devotees, ensuring greater inclusivity in this sacred event.
Political Considerations: Given the political significance of the Kumbh Mela in Uttar Pradesh, the government may consider an extension to avoid criticism from opposition parties.

As millions continue to arrive, the demand for an extension remains a critical point of discussion in the final weeks of Maha Kumbh 2025.