Dubai: Indian expats in the UAE, who have returned from India’s Maha Kumbh Mela, said to be the world’s largest congregation of people, have shared their experiences to enable others undertaking the once-in-a-lifetime trip to have a safe and enriching journey.
As the 45-day festival, which began on January 13, continues till February 26, millions of people from all over the world, including the UAE, have been making a beeline to Prayagraj in India’s Uttar Pradesh where it is taking place.
Although the regular Kumbh Mela occurs once in 12 years, the ongoing mega event is considered more auspicious as it is believed to be happening after 144 years.
Amongst other things, the gathering allows the millions converging at Prayagraj to immerse themselves in the waters of Ganga, Yamuna and the mystical Saraswati rivers, symbolic of an ultimate cleansing.
Good arrangements
For Dubai-based Divjyot Chauhan and her husband Bikram Walia, the experience was “surreal”.
“The Maha Kumbh Mela is a highly marketed event. But nothing could have prepared me for what I experienced when I got there, not even my past attendance at the 2019 Kumbh Mela,” said Divjyot.
She said, “The Maha Kumbh is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many. Pilgrims immerse themselves in sacred rivers, chant mantras, meditate, and participate in rituals that have been passed down for millennia. This gathering is more than a physical journey; it’s a profound inner transformation.”
She said she preferred to stay at hotel on the side of the Akhadas, as against the Arail Ghat where the tents have been put up.
“Notwithstanding the number of people who were present, the arrangements were very good. There were enough boats to take people up to the Sangam point for the holy dip. There were well-constructed bridges and floating decks, besides changing rooms for the benefit of visitors. Those who wanted to offer their prayers also had ready assistance,” she said.
Due safety measures
Another expat Jay Mordani, who was part of five-member group, said he was at Prayagraj on January 18 and 19. “It was a great experience and due safety measures were in place to manage the huge crowds.”
Mordani said, “We were at a tent in Sector 19 and took a boat to the Triveni Sangam. The boatmen were very helpful. There was enough surveillance – from different vantage points on land, in the waters and from above. The helicopters even showered rose petals on pilgrims as they took the dip.”
Taking precautions
Jitendra Vaidya, President of the Indian People’s Forum UAE, who got back from Prayagraj last week, said, “During this Maha Kumbh, approximately 400 million people will be taking the dip at the Triveni Sangam over the 45 days. While our experience was wonderful, it is important to remember that Maha Kumbh is the largest gathering in the world, and certain precautions must be taken to ensure a safe and fulfilling visit,” he cautioned.
He said. “The arrangements for accommodation were excellent, with numerous tent options available, along with food, ample washrooms and changing rooms built by the government. But it was prudent for individuals to take extra care.”
Tips for travellers
Vaidya has shared the following precautions that those bound for the Maha Kumbh can take:
Keep emergency contacts at hand: They include numbers of hospitals, police, and embassy contact details.
Respect local customs: Dress modestly, follow temple rules, and honour local rituals.
Be mindful during the dip: Participate in the holy dip, but be mindful and follow lifeguard instructions.
Avoid peak crowds: Visit during off-peak times and hours for a safer and more peaceful experience.
Connectivity and payments: Get an Indian SIM card for better network coverage or use international roaming.
Cash and digital payments: Carry some cash for small transactions, but digital payments (UPI, Paytm) are widely accepted.
Stay with your group: Follow designated routes and adhere to official instructions.
Plan your visit wisely: It’s best to arrive in the morning, take the dip, and leave on the same day to avoid excessive crowds.
Travel light: Preferably with a backpack containing a change of clothes and a towel.
Wear suitable footwear: You can manage it easily if it gets wet.
