At least seven people have been killed and many others injured in a crowd crush at the Mahakumbh Mela festival in Prayagraj, India, on January 29, 2025. Witnesses reported seeing multiple bodies, with some sources indicating the death toll could rise to as many as 15.
- Crowd crush at Mahakumbh Mela festival
- Initial death toll reported between 7-15
- Rescue teams deployed for victims
- Prime Minister Modi directs relief efforts
- Festival attracts up to 400 million pilgrims
- History of deadly incidents at festivals
The incident occurred near a river bank during one of the festival’s holiest days, prompting a rapid response from rescue teams and local authorities.
The Mahakumbh Mela, held every 12 years, is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, drawing up to 400 million pilgrims. This year’s festival is taking place in a 10,000-acre site in Prayagraj, where makeshift accommodations have been set up for attendees. The festival is centered around ritual bathing at the confluence of the Ganges and Yamuna rivers, believed to cleanse sins.
On the morning of the crush, officials had urged attendees to stay away from the main bathing area as the crowd density increased. Despite these warnings, chaos ensued, leading to the tragic incident. Eyewitnesses described a scene of panic, with discarded belongings scattered across the ground as rescue teams worked to carry victims away.
In response to the situation, a Rapid Action Force was deployed to manage the crowd and assist with rescue efforts. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been in contact with local officials to address the crisis and provide relief. The final death toll remains uncertain as families of the injured await News outside a temporary hospital set up near the site.
This tragic event highlights the risks associated with large-scale religious festivals in India, which have a history of crowd-related disasters. Authorities are expected to review safety measures in place to prevent future occurrences as the festival continues until February 26.
