PRAYAGRAJ: The Mahakumbh, one of the most sacred pilgrimages in India, witnessed over 2.27 million pilgrims flock to Prayagraj on its eighth day, according to official data from the Uttar Pradesh government. By 8 am, on Monday, the Sangam Triveni,  where the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers meet, was bustling with devotees. Among them were one million Kalpvasis, who spend the month at the festival in spiritual reflection, and 1.27 million other pilgrims who took a holy dip.

As of January 19, the total number of visitors to the Mahakumbh 2025 has crossed 82.6 million, with attendance expected to rise in the coming weeks. Despite the chilly weather conditions in the city, the devotion of the pilgrims remained unwavering as they gathered at the sacred site in large numbers.

The festival's momentum is set to grow with four significant Shahi Snans (royal baths) yet to take place. The key dates for these holy baths are January 29 (Mauni Amavasya), February 3 (Basant Panchami), February 12 (Maghi Purnima), and February 26 (Maha Shivaratri).

On Sunday, the seventh day of the Mahakumbh, over five million pilgrims participated in the festivities. However, the day was marred by a fire incident at the Gita Press camp in the Mela area. The Fire, caused by the explosion of three cooking gas cylinders, damaged 70 to 80 huts and 8 to 10 tents. Thankfully, no casualties were reported.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally contacted Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to inquire about the situation. State Minister AK Sharma noted that around 100 people were present in the Gita Press camp area during the incident but attributed the absence of injuries to divine blessings. 

Vivek Chaturvedi, the Additional District Magistrate of the Mahakumbh Mela, confirmed the extent of the fire's impact. Despite the mishap, the festival continues to draw massive crowds, emphasizing the deep spiritual significance of the Mahakumbh for millions of devotees.

The Mahakumbh, which began on January 13, will continue until February 26, offering pilgrims ample opportunities to immerse themselves in its spiritual grandeur.