Modi Takes Holy Dips at Kumbh Mela, a Week After Deadly Stampede

On February 5, 2025, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, taking ritualistic holy dips at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers. This event occurred a week after a tragic stampede on January 29, which resulted in the deaths of at least 30 people, with some sources reporting higher casualties. The stampede happened during the festival’s most auspicious day, attracting over 76 million devotees. In response to the incident, authorities have initiated an investigation and implemented enhanced safety measures, including increased deployment of security personnel to manage the vast crowds. Despite the tragedy, the festival continues, with more than 380 million attendees recorded in its first three weeks.