Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh: A devastating stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj has claimed the lives of at least a dozen people, with nearly 50 others reported injured. The tragic incident occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, as a massive crowd of devotees surged toward the holy bath during one of Hinduism’s most significant religious events.
While state authorities and police have yet to officially confirm the death toll, multiple reports indicate that at least 10 fatalities have been recorded in what has been described as one of the worst crushes during the festival.
The chaos unfolded at the Sangam, where thousands had gathered to take the holy dip on Mauni Amavasya (new moon), a key day in the Maha Kumbh. Officials confirmed that a “stampede-like” situation erupted when a barrier broke, leading to a rush of people. “Some have been injured and hospitalized after the barrier at the Sangam broke. We are still trying to confirm the total number of casualties,” an official said.
Mauni Amavasya is traditionally the busiest day of the Maha Kumbh, drawing an estimated 100 million pilgrims to the sacred rivers. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as devotees, eager to perform the amrit snan (holy dip), became trapped in the surge, many falling to the ground. In the ensuing chaos, people abandoned their belongings in a desperate bid to escape the stampede.
The event, which attracts millions of attendees, including high-profile global figures and Indian leaders, quickly turned into a chaotic scene. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences via social media, confirming the deaths and offering his support to the victims. “The accident that occurred at the Prayagraj Maha Kumbh is extremely sad. My deepest condolences to the families of the victims, and I wish for the speedy recovery of all the injured,” Modi wrote, adding that he had been in continuous contact with state authorities.
The injured were initially treated at temporary medical facilities set up for the event before being transferred to local hospitals. Authorities worked quickly to assist those separated from their families in the confusion, with disturbing scenes unfolding at the missing persons booth.
A paramilitary officer at the scene, speaking to The Guardian, estimated the death toll at around 50, with at least 200 injured. “There were multiple stampedes. I saw the bodies with my own eyes,” the officer said.
In response to the incident, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath assured the public that the situation had been brought under control and urged citizens to follow safety instructions. “Maha Kumbh-2025, dear devotees, please cooperate with the administration and avoid heading to the Sangam Nose,” he posted on X, calling for calm and order.
The Akharas, groups of ascetic sadhus, had initially decided to forgo their scheduled holy dip on Wednesday due to safety concerns. However, after the situation stabilized, they reversed their decision and participated in the ritual.
The Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years, is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. This year’s Maha Kumbh is especially significant as it coincides with the rare 12th Kumbh Mela, an event that occurs only once every 144 years.
