Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday unveiled the official logo for Maha Kumbh-2025 in Prayagraj. Earlier in the day, CM Yogi reviewed the ongoing preparations for the upcoming event, which is set to attract millions of devotees. During his visit, he also performed a puja and met with saints to discuss the arrangements for the festival.

“Today I got the opportunity to interact with respected saints and sages in view of Maha Kumbh-2025 at ‘Tirthraj’ Prayagraj, the holy land of religion, culture, and spirituality. May the divine and grand Maha Kumbh, the eternal symbol of Sanatan faith, be auspicious for all!” the Chief Minister shared in a post on X.

Security and Infrastructure Arrangements

The Maha Kumbh Mela, scheduled to be held from January 14 to February 26, 2025, will feature key bathing festivals, including the “Shahi Snan” on January 14 (Makar Sankranti), January 29 (Mauni Amavasya), and February 3 (Basant Panchami). The UP government has announced subsidies for improving dhabas, restaurants, and hotels along major routes, aiming to provide better facilities for pilgrims and tourists. Security arrangements are being strengthened to ensure a safe and smooth event.

Restrictions for Non-Sanatanis

Mahant Hari Giri, the head of Juna Akhara, emphasized that only Sanatanis would be allowed to attend the Kumbh Mela. “It is a mela for Sanatanis. Only people devoted to Sanatana Dharma will be allowed. We are concerned about the security, and all attendees must have their Aadhaar cards checked before entering,” Giri said. He also called for a ban on meat and alcohol within a 10-kilometer radius of the event to preserve its sanctity.

Giri further noted that the term “Mahakumbh” has Persian origins, and discussions are underway to consider renaming the event. “We are rethinking changing the name and have scheduled a two-day meeting to decide on this matter,” he added.

The government is expected to issue an order on the name change soon.