7 Shocking Photos From Maha Kumbh: Mauni Amavasya Snan Leaves 30 Dead, 60 Hospitalised In Stampede Near Sangam

Stampede In Mahakumbh: A stampede at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj’s Sangam area led to deaths of at least 30 and injured 60 early Wednesday morning, said Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Vaibhav Krishna in a press conference later in the day. The incident occurred as crores of devotees gathered for the Mauni Amavasya holy dip, causing a chaotic rush. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences, calling the incident "extremely saddening," and assured that the local administration is providing all possible assistance. 

The Mauni Amavasya Snan holds immense significance during the Kumbh Mela. It is considered one of the most auspicious bathing days, attracting millions of devotees to the Triveni Sangam—the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati. According to Hindu beliefs, taking a holy dip on this day washes away sins and paves the way for moksha (liberation).

During the Kumbh Mela, Mauni Amavasya is also the primary bathing day for saints, sadhus, and akharas, who lead grand processions before performing the ritual. The event symbolizes spiritual purification, inner silence, and deep devotion. Pilgrims believe that the divine energy is at its peak on this day, making the sacred bath even more powerful.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath confirmed that several devotees were seriously injured. He said the stampede happened between 1 am and 2 am when some pilgrims tried to cross barricades at Akhara Marg. The injured were rushed to a nearby Central hospital in Mahakumbh Nagar for treatment. 

Eyewitnesses described a scene of panic and helplessness. Ambulances and police sirens pierced through the loud chanting of mantras. Security personnel and rescue workers carried injured pilgrims on stretchers while belongings lay scattered. 

In response to the crisis, Adityanath announced that akharas would take their holy dip only after crowd pressure reduces. He urged devotees to use nearby ghats instead of heading to the Sangam to prevent further overcrowding. Officials estimate that nearly 9-10 crore pilgrims are in Prayagraj. 

Several devotees recalled their harrowing experiences. A woman from Karnataka said her group was trapped as the crowd pushed from all sides. Another pilgrim from Madhya Pradesh said his mother was injured, while a woman at the hospital claimed that some people were laughing as others begged for space. 

The Akhil Bhartiya Akhara Parishad deferred the traditional bathing ritual of saints due to the heavy rush. As per Kumbh traditions, akharas follow a set sequence for the dip at the Triveni Sangam. The administration had earlier urged pilgrims to follow crowd-control measures, but the overwhelming footfall led to chaos.