Akhilesh Yadav requests extension of Maha Kumbh duration
What's the story
Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav has asked the Uttar Pradesh government to extend the ongoing Maha Kumbh. He said the overwhelming number of devotees still hoping to attend was his reason. "Even now, many people want to go to Maha Kumbh but cannot. In such a situation, the government should extend the time limit of Maha Kumbh," Yadav said.
Record attendance
Maha Kumbh witnesses historic turnout
The Maha Kumbh, which started on January 13 in Prayagraj, will end on February 26. Despite a deadly stampede on January 29, millions continue to flock daily from India and abroad. The Uttar Pradesh government observed this congregation is the largest in human history for any religious/cultural event. The footfall at Maha Kumbh is more than the populations of countries like the US and Russia combined.
Unprecedented numbers
Over 50 crore devotees attend Maha Kumbh
The ongoing Maha Kumbh has made history with over 50 crore devotees taking a holy dip at Triveni Sangam by February 14. This number exceeds the population of all countries except India and China. On February 14 alone, over 92 lakh pilgrims performed the ritual. Before the event started, it was estimated attendance would be between 40 and 45 crores.
Rumor dismissal
Prayagraj DM denies rumors of Maha Kumbh extension
However, the actual footfall has surpassed estimates, emphasizing not just the gathering's importance, but also resulting in many who have missed out on the opportunity. Despite rumors of an extension, Prayagraj District Magistrate Ravindra Kumar Mandhad confirmed that the event will end as planned on February 26. Mandhad blamed "anti-social elements" for spreading false information about an extension and urged devotees not to heed such rumors.