The Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department organised a grand event, ‘Mahakumbh 2025 Prelude’, on Friday, at The Ashoka Hotel in New Delhi.
Graced by Union Minister of Tourism and Culture, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, and Uttar Pradesh’s Minister of Tourism and Culture, Jaiveer Singh, the event aimed to provide a glimpse into the spiritual essence of Prayagraj, the host city for the upcoming Mahakumbh 2025. Dignitaries from various ministries, ambassadors, and high commissioners from several countries were in attendance, along with senior officials from the central and state governments.
The event served as a curtain-raiser to the grand Mahakumbh 2025, the world’s largest spiritual gathering, scheduled to be held in the sacred city of Prayagraj. The primary objective of the event was to highlight the cultural, spiritual, and infrastructural preparations underway for this iconic gathering, which is expected to draw over 40 crore devotees from across the globe.
Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat emphasized India’s unique spiritual heritage and invited global tourists to experience the transformative power of Mahakumbh. “It is an ancient celebration of India’s rich and diverse culture and humanity. As we prepare to host the upcoming Mahakumbh Mela 2025 at Prayagraj, I extend an invitation to people across the world to participate in this monumental event that symbolizes the spirit of global unity and cooperation that is much needed in today’s geopolitically turbulent times. We see the Mahakumbh as an opportunity for cultural exchange. If you wish to see India in one place, then Mahakumbh Mela is the place. We are working diligently to provide all the support for accommodation, transportation, and guided tours around the Mahakumbh Mela grounds and in its vicinity, making the experience of each traveller as unique as it can get”, he said at the prelude event.
Jaiveer Singh, Uttar Pradesh’s Tourism Minister, echoed similar sentiments, stating, “Mahakumbh-2025 is not just a spiritual gathering but a rare alignment that embodies India’s philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (the world is one family). It will be a monumental event where diversity converges into unity.” He invited international visitors to witness the grandeur of this event, which will not only showcase India’s cultural depth but also set new global benchmarks in religious tourism.
Principal Secretary of Tourism, Mukesh Kumar Meshram, outlined the infrastructural advancements being made in preparation for Mahakumbh. He shared that an ultra-modern tent city near the Parade Ground featuring luxury accommodations such as villas, Maharaja tents, and deluxe tents is under construction. Additionally, 1,600 Swiss cottages are being set up in Arail, along with 200 cottages in Jhunsi and another 200 at parade ground to accommodate the influx of pilgrims. Thrilling activities like helicopter rides and water sports will further enhance the visitor experience.
The event featured an engaging exhibition, cultural performances, and the screening of films related to Mahakumbh 2025. Ambassadors and dignitaries from countries including Suriname, Malaysia, Seychelles, Nepal, and Switzerland, among others, attended the event, showcasing the global interest in this monumental gathering.
The Mahakumbh 2025 Prelude concluded with vibrant discussions, a review of the tent city’s models, and an invitation to all to partake in this unparalleled celebration of spirituality and culture.