In his address at the inauguration in Prayagraj, CM Adityanath emphasized that the radio channel would enable individuals in distant villages to receive real-time information about the Maha Kumbh. He stated, “We will deliver all information about the Maha Kumbh to those living in remote villages via these facilities. We can broadcast the happenings in the Maha Kumbh so that people living in these areas can experience the same.”

The Chief Minister acknowledged Prasar Bharti’s efforts in overcoming modern-day challenges, including the evolution of media from radio to visual platforms, while staying true to its roots. He pointed out that Akashvani, once the sole medium to reach the masses, had played a significant role in transmitting cultural and traditional content, including broadcasts of Ramcharitmanas during his childhood. Despite the shift to visual mediums, Adityanath appreciated how Prasar Bharti continued to serve communities, especially in areas where other forms of communication are limited.

On the occasion, CM Adityanath also addressed the broader significance of the Maha Kumbh Mela, highlighting its inclusive nature and the message of unity it sends across communities and faiths. He called the event a symbol of Sanatan pride, where people from all walks of life come together to take part in the holy dip at the Sangam. Adityanath added that the Maha Kumbh serves as a reminder that there is no caste-based discrimination or untouchability, and all individuals, regardless of gender or background, unite in the spirit of faith.

“The Maha Kumbh is not just an event; it represents the Sanatan pride, a grand gathering. Those who claim that there is caste-based discrimination in Sanatan Dharma should come and witness that there is no such division here,” the Chief Minister asserted. “This is a spiritual message of unity, where people from all religions and communities come together and take a dip at the same place.”

Furthermore, the Chief Minister unveiled a statue of the late former MP Kamla Bahuguna during his visit to Prayagraj. He also inaugurated ‘Maa Ki Rasoi’, an initiative by Nandi Seva Sansthan located at the Swaroop Rani Nehru Hospital. The event was attended by several prominent leaders, including UP Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak and other state cabinet ministers.

The ‘Kumbhvani’ radio channel will operate at a frequency of 103.5 MHz and is scheduled to broadcast from January 10 to February 26. It will be available from 5:55 AM to 10:05 PM, providing a platform for the people to stay connected with the spiritual and cultural events of the Maha Kumbh.

This innovative initiative by Prasar Bharti promises to bridge the gap in communication and ensure that the significance of the Maha Kumbh is shared far and wide.

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“The Maha Kumbh Mela has taken its shape, and the preparations are advancing on a war footing. People are excited, and this auspicious moment comes after 144 years. The country and the world are eager to witness this great gathering,” said CM Yogi during an interview.

Scheduled to be held in Prayagraj (formerly known as Allahabad) from January 13 to February 26, 2025, the Maha Kumbh Mela is set to be one of the largest spiritual and religious gatherings globally. To accommodate the expected influx of visitors, more than 7,000 organizations have already joined the event, and arrangements are being made to set up over 1.5 lakh tents for devotees. Additionally, the authorities are constructing 30 pontoon bridges, with 28 already completed and the remaining two set to be finished in the next few days.

To ensure smooth movement, a temporary ghat of 12 km is being prepared. The Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister has consistently visited Prayagraj to monitor the progress of these preparations, including his most recent visit on Tuesday, which marked his fifth visit to the city this December.

During this visit, CM Yogi also inaugurated the Bio-CNG plant in Naini and toured significant locations such as the Sangam Erawat Ghat, Sangam Noj Ghat, and the newly constructed steel bridge adjacent to the Ganga Setu. Additionally, he held a review meeting at the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) Auditorium to oversee the coordination efforts for the mega event.

As part of the safety measures, Uttar Pradesh Police will employ underwater drones to bolster security during the event. The state is also gearing up to showcase India’s vibrant cultural diversity. Over the 45 days of the Maha Kumbh, the Uttar Pradesh Culture Department will set up 20 small stages across key locations in Prayagraj. These stages will offer an immersive experience of India’s folk arts, with various cultural performances, including traditional dance forms from different states.

The main bathing ceremonies, known as the “Shahi Snan” (royal baths), will take place on significant dates: January 14 (Makar Sankranti), January 29 (Mauni Amavasya), and February 3 (Basant Panchami). As the event draws closer, CM Yogi has extended invitations to several dignitaries, including President Droupadi Murmu and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, to attend the grand occasion.

With these extensive preparations, the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 promises to be a historic and unforgettable event, attracting visitors from across the world to witness India’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage.

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Enhanced Facilities for Devotees

With a focus on providing a seamless and comfortable experience for millions of devotees, authorities are introducing a range of innovative facilities. A special floating jetty is being constructed at the Sangam, enabling devotees to take comfortable holy dips and access changing rooms conveniently.

Additionally, a 100-bed hospital is nearing completion at the Parade Ground in Mahakumbh Nagar. This facility, staffed with specialist doctors, will ensure the health and well-being of devotees and saints throughout the event.

World-Class Accommodation Options

To accommodate the anticipated influx of visitors, natural huts and luxury tents equipped with modern amenities will be set up in Prayagraj. The tent city will offer five-star hotel-like accommodations in four categories:

• Villa
• Maharaja
• Swiss Cottage
• Dormitory

Prices for these accommodations range from Rs 1,500 to Rs 35,000 per day, with an additional charge of Rs 4,000 to Rs 8,000 for extra guests, excluding dormitories. This initiative aims to host an estimated 45 crore visitors from 75 countries, reflecting the global significance of the Mahakumbh.

Green Mahakumbh Initiative

In a step towards sustainable tourism, the Uttar Pradesh government has announced an online booking system for electric rickshaws and e-autos. This eco-friendly initiative aims to reduce the event’s carbon footprint and enhance travel convenience for devotees.

Starting from December 15, 2023, devotees can book e-rickshaws and e-autos through a dedicated app, modeled after popular ride-hailing platforms like Uber and Ola.

A Historic and Sustainable Event

With these initiatives, Mahakumbh 2025 promises to be not only a monumental religious gathering but also a pioneering model of sustainable and inclusive tourism. By blending tradition with modernity, the Uttar Pradesh government aims to ensure a memorable experience for millions of devotees attending this sacred event.

Stay tuned for more updates on the Mahakumbh 2025 as preparations continue.

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Developed in collaboration with private and government transport providers, the platform offers fixed fares, verified drivers, and environmentally friendly vehicles. With a projected influx of 45 crore visitors, the service will address transportation challenges, featuring convenient booking locations such as railway stations, bus stands, the airport, and major hotels.

“By offering a fleet of environmentally-friendly electric vehicles, we aim to make the Mahakumbh Mela both a safe and sustainable experience for all,” said Manu Gupta, Founder and Director of Comfy E Mobility, the startup spearheading the project.

The initiative also includes a “Pink Taxi” service exclusively operated by women drivers, ensuring safety and comfort for women devotees amidst large crowds. The fleet will launch with 300 e-rickshaws covering key routes around Prayagraj and the Mahakumbh grounds.

Key features include GPS-tracked vehicles, transparent fare systems, and trained drivers skilled in customer service and Google Voice Assistance to assist international visitors. A dedicated call center will handle passenger concerns, reinforcing the service’s emphasis on safety and reliability.

This initiative is part of the state’s broader environmental strategy to reduce pollution and promote sustainable practices. RK Chauhan, CEO of Comfy E Mobility, highlighted the program’s dual focus on convenience and environmental conservation. “We believe the Mahakumbh Mela offers a perfect opportunity to launch this eco-friendly service, which will also provide employment opportunities and contribute to cleaner air in the region,” he said.

Post-Mahakumbh, the service aims to expand to other cities across Uttar Pradesh, further advancing the adoption of electric vehicles and reducing urban pollution.

As one of the world’s largest religious gatherings, the Mahakumbh Mela 2025 is poised to set a precedent in sustainable tourism, blending cultural and spiritual significance with environmental consciousness.

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