Tensions Rise at Prayagraj Mela During Mauni Amavasya Celebrations

The Prayagraj Mela witnessed significant turmoil during the Mauni Amavasya celebrations as police clashed with devotees, leading to heightened tensions. Despite the chaos, record numbers of attendees participated in the holy dips at the Ganges and Sangam. Authorities implemented various facilities to manage the crowd and ensure safety, including a tent city for meditation and transportation options like bike taxis. This year's Mela has seen over 13 million devotees, showcasing the event's immense popularity and the challenges that come with it. Read on for more insights into this year's festivities and the measures taken by the administration.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 18, 2026, 12:09 IST

Disruptions at the Prayagraj Mela

Today, during the Mauni Amavasya at the Prayagraj Mela, chaos erupted at the Sangam due to an overwhelming number of devotees. In response to the massive crowd, authorities halted the procession of Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwar Saraswati from Jyoti Peeth. The police cited the area as a no-vehicle zone, preventing the Shankaracharya from reaching the riverbank, which led to a heated exchange and physical confrontations between his supporters and law enforcement. This altercation escalated tensions within the fairgrounds, prompting Swami Avimukteshwaranand to refuse to take a holy dip. To manage the crowd, police pushed back supporters, inciting significant anger among the saints.

Record Attendance at the Mela

On this Mauni Amavasya, by 8 AM, approximately 13 million devotees had bathed in the Ganges and at the Sangam. An official from the fair administration reported that people began arriving at the bathing sites from midnight. Previously, on Makar Sankranti, around 10.3 million and on Ekadashi, about 8.5 million individuals participated in the holy dips. Commissioner Soumya Agarwal mentioned that reflective tape has been placed on poles to guide devotees, and civil defense volunteers are assisting with navigation. The Mela spans 800 hectares divided into seven sectors, featuring over 25,000 toilets and more than 3,500 sanitation workers.

Facilities for Devotees

For those wishing to undertake a short-term stay, a tent city has been established at the Mela, offering facilities for meditation and yoga. To facilitate easy transportation for devotees, bike taxis and golf carts are available. Superintendent of Police (Mela) Neeraj Pandey stated that over 10,000 police personnel are deployed throughout the fairgrounds to ensure safety and smooth movement. He added that this year, 42 temporary parking areas have been set up, accommodating over 100,000 vehicles. Additionally, for the 2025-26 Mela, a total of 12,100 feet of ghats will be constructed, equipped with all essential amenities.