The Great Leveller: It's the Maha Kumbh of Magic

Talk to a friend. Not a boardroom.

We are in the 3rd week of January. 2025 already seems to be a year setting a fast pace ahead. Most of us are watching the buzz of the Maha Kumbh unfold on social media—from the IIT Baba to the beauty queen turned sanyasini. We hear about the mind-boggling number of visitors and imagine crowds pushing, the potential for stampedes, and general chaos. When I planned my visit, friends expressed their concerns. One remarked, "I know you’re brave, but you’re being very, very brave to travel during the Shahi Snan days."

For those unfamiliar with the Maha Kumbh and Shahi Snan, here’s a quick primer:

This year’s Maha Kumbh Mela began on the auspicious day of Paush Purnima, January 13, 2025, and will continue until February 26, 2025. What makes this Maha Kumbh truly unique is the constellation alignment, which occurs only once every 144 years. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime event for anyone alive today—unless we follow Brian Johnson’s playbook for extending lifespans beyond 100 years!

During this Maha Kumbh, six days are marked as “special”—the Shahi Snan days—when taking a dip in the holy Triveni Sangam is believed to erase all past sins and grant a renewed purpose in life. We chose to visit on the first Shahi Snan day, January 13, coinciding with the year’s first full moon, Paush Purnima. Now that you have the background, let me share more about the magic of the Maha Kumbh.

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The Maha Kumbh is not just another event or travel experience; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness India operating on an unprecedented scale with flawless execution. When my college friend Divya initiated a WhatsApp group called “Chalo MahaKumbh,” almost 6 months back, I joined without hesitation. I booked my tickets, thinking I’d decide closer to the date whether to go—a typical strategy for plans six months away. But as more of my friends joined, I had no option but to commit. Despite skeptical calls and warnings about the risks, I’m so glad I followed my heart.

Don’t fall into the narrative of the have and have-nots. This is one place where all felt privileged.

We stayed at the Kumbh Village in tented accommodations. While they offered package tours, we opted out. Today, I read about how the Maha Kumbh is marketed as luxurious for those willing to pay, but this narrative doesn’t capture the true essence of the event. The organizers strive to ensure parity among all visitors, and this inclusivity defines the Maha Kumbh.

As you enter the Kumbh area, you’re swept up in a wave of energy. Imagine millions of people moving in harmony, driven by faith and devotion.

Picture a sprawling city where no cars are allowed, and everyone walks—groups interrupted only by the occasional electric three-wheeler. The air vibrates with chants and prayers from speakers across ashrams and camps.

One of the biggest surprises was the impeccable organization. From crowd management to safety measures, everything was handled with precision. The facilities were spotless with dustbins set every 300-500m, Water ATM’s (yes you read this right), the flow of people seamless, and the atmosphere inclusive. Free food was distributed to all travellers, showcasing the generosity of various institutions. Countless small food stalls offered delicious, clean meals at affordable prices. We relished hot puris with aaloo ki sabji and comforting bowls of khichdi served by volunteers at free food camps, with hot chai. These acts of kindness created a sense of community that amplified the spiritual atmosphere.

What truly stood out was the absence of VIP disruptions—the playing field was level for everyone. The infrastructure was awe-inspiring: free electric vehicles, 27 bridges connecting both sides of the Ganges, 20 sewage plants, and an entire city that will vanish once the Maha Kumbh concludes. It’s surreal to think about.

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And then came the Shahi Snan—the royal bath. Words can’t fully capture the intensity of this moment. There were 1,000 boats, all government-subsidized and free for pilgrims. Stepping into the Ganga for the ceremonial dip, surrounded by chants and prayers, I felt an indescribable connection to something much greater than myself. It was pure magic.

Encounters with Saints and Spiritual Leaders: Meeting saints and spiritual leaders was another highlight. Each interaction felt like opening a door to new perspectives on life. Their wisdom, simplicity, and serene aura were deeply inspiring. Listening to their discourses amidst vibrant chants added a profound dimension to the journey. Some encounters felt personal and sacred, too special to share openly.

A Night Cloaked in Fog: One evening, we decided to revisit the Akharas. Their unique energy draws you back. As we walked back across the bridge over the Ganges, the road disappeared into a thick fog. Visibility was so low we could barely see ten feet ahead. Suddenly, two men joined us, slowing their pace to match ours and chanting “Hare Ram, Hare Ram” the entire way. Their presence felt god sent. When we reached the other side, the sight of people lighting lamps along the riverbanks came into view. The flickering lights reflected in the water, and in the distance, we could just make out the silhouettes of Siberian birds that had migrated. It was a surreal and otherworldly experience.

Reflections and Takeaways: As I left the Maha Kumbh on January 15, I felt an overwhelming sense of peace and gratitude. This wasn’t just a trip—it was a spiritual reset. The Maha Kumbh reminded me of the power of collective belief and the beauty of tradition. It also demonstrated how impeccable planning can transform even the largest gatherings into meaningful experiences.

I’m deeply grateful to everyone who worked tirelessly to ensure the safety and comfort of millions of travellers. The vision and execution behind the Maha Kumbh are nothing short of extraordinary.

This is the India we live in—a country where people walk miles to be part of something larger than themselves. If you want to understand the soul of India, go to the Maha Kumbh. Every state has a presence; it’s truly a microcosm of India.

If you’ve ever considered visiting the Maha Kumbh, I encourage you to plan a trip. Let go of reservations and inhibitions, and embrace the process. Go with an open heart, and you’ll leave with memories and insights that will stay with you forever.

The Maha Kumbh isn’t just an event; it’s a magical experience that transforms you in ways you never imagined.

Here’s wishing all my friends a Magical 2025! May the magic continue to unfold. This journey reminds me of the quote from J. Krishnamurti The Book of Life: "truth can come to you only when your mind is empty and your heart is full"

Love Always.

Team LetsUnBox