Five times more devotees expected for the Kumbha Mela; projects worth ₹20,000 crore underway

Maharashtra Government begins preparations for the Nashik Kumbha Mela

Nashik (Maharashtra) – “Every Kumbha Mela in Nashik attracts lakhs of people. However, this time the number of devotees is expected to increase fivefold. Accordingly, the government will ensure proper safety and facilities for all devotees. Projects worth ₹20,000 crore are currently underway for this purpose,” Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis informed. Extensive preparations have begun for the Simhastha Kumbha Mela, scheduled to be held in 2027. The Chief Minister was speaking at the foundation ceremonies of various development works.

1. A competition has been announced for the Kumbha Mela emblem. Applications for the competition will be accepted from 20 November to 20 December. The first prize for the winning emblem is ₹3 lakh.

2. Owing to the Simhastha Kumbha Mela to be held in Nashik and Trimbakeshwar, the government has prepared both short-term and long-term development plans. A total provision of ₹5,757 crore has been made for various facilities, including roads, water supply, drainage, sanitation, transportation, security, and accommodation for Saints and Sadhus.

Opportunity to transform Nashik’s landscape

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said that the Kumbha Mela has provided a major opportunity to transform the face of Nashik. With these development works, the city will become cleaner, more beautiful, and more modern. Special emphasis will be placed on sanitation and water purification in the Ramkund area and along the Godavari River.

1,400-acre Sadhugram with full facilities for devotees

The Deputy Chief Minister said, “A 1,400-acre Sadhugram will be established for the Kumbha Mela. It will include complete accommodation and facilities for Saints and Sadhus coming from all over the country. This Trikhanda Kumbha Mela will last 22 months. Comprehensive planning and preparations are necessary for managing the lakhs of devotees and Saints. Experience from the Prayagraj Kumbha Mela will be utilised to enhance future event planning and management.”

Digital Kumbha and AI management

Chief Minister Fadnavis announced the new concept of “Digital Kumbha” for promoting the Kumbha Mela. Under this initiative, all information will be made available to devotees through digital platforms. The Deputy Chief Minister added, “Artificial Intelligence will be used for crowd control and maintaining law and order. With the help of technology, rumours and misinformation will be prevented, and accurate information will be disseminated.”