A tragic stampede-like situation at the Sangam during the ongoing Maha Kumbh on Wednesday (January 29) resulted in the deaths of more than seven people and left at least 10 others injured.
The incident occurred as thousands of pilgrims gathered for a holy bath on the occasion of Mauni Amavasya, officials confirmed.
“More than seven people have lost their lives in the stampede, and around 10 others have been injured,” an official told Reuters on condition of anonymity.
However, even 12 hours after the incident, neither the Union nor the Uttar Pradesh government released an official death toll, maintaining silence on the exact number of casualties.
Following the tragic event, the Akharas decided to cancel the traditional Amrit Snan, which takes place on Mauni Amavasya, reported the Press Trust of India (PTI).
“Some people were injured and have been hospitalized after a barrier broke at the Sangam. We are still working to determine the exact number of casualties,” said Akanksha Rana, Officer on Special Duty for the Kumbh Mela.
Sarojini, a devotee from Karnataka, described the chaos to PTI Videos:
“We came in a batch of 60 people in two buses. There were nine of us in the group. Suddenly, there was pushing in the crowd, and we got trapped. Many of us fell down, and the crowd became uncontrollable. There was no way to escape—people were pushing from all sides.”
The Amrit Snan, considered the most significant ritual of the Kumbh Mela, was expected to be attended by nearly 10 crore pilgrims.
A paramilitary officer at the scene told The Guardian that the casualty count was far higher than reported.
“There were multiple stampedes. At least 200 people were injured, and I’d estimate around 50 dead. I saw them with my own eyes,” the officer said.
Recognizing the severity of the situation, religious leaders from the Akhara Parishad decided to refrain from taking the holy dip on Mauni Amavasya.
“Considering the massive crowds and the unavoidable chaos, the Akhara Parishad and all the acharyas have unanimously decided not to take snaan today. As per Indian traditions, saints always pray and work for the well-being of all. Keeping this in mind, we have chosen to skip the holy dip today and will instead take it on Vasant Panchami,” said Niranjani Akhara Chief Kailashanand Giri Maharaj, as reported by ANI.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the incident, stating that he is in touch with the Uttar Pradesh government.
“The accident at the Prayagraj Maha Kumbh is extremely saddening. My heartfelt condolences to the devotees who have lost their loved ones. I also pray for the speedy recovery of all the injured. The local administration is doing everything possible to assist the victims. I have spoken to Chief Minister Yogi Ji and remain in constant touch with the state government,” PM Modi posted on X after the tragedy.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath addressed the incident in a video statement, revealing that it took place between 1 AM and 2 AM on Wednesday. He stated that some devotees were “seriously injured” while attempting to jump barricades to participate in the Amrit Snan.
