The Maha Kumbh 2025 began in Prayagraj on January 13, and millions of people are arriving in Sangamnagari. This religious gathering happens where the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers meet. Now, the question is: how are the organizers counting the number of devotees coming to Sangam? Here, we will explain how they are figuring out the total number of visitors.
How many people were at the first royal bath?
On the day of the first royal bath (Amrit Sanaan) at Prayagraj Mahakumbh 2025, the officials said that over 3.5 crore devotees bathed in the Sangam. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath posted this number on his social media account.
Around 45 Crore Devotees Expected
About 45 crore devotees are likely to visit during the Maha Kumbh. People anticipate large gatherings on Makar Sankranti and other important bathing festivals.
आस्था, एकता और समरसता के महासमागम महाकुम्भ 2025, प्रयागराज में आज 30 लाख से अधिक और अब तक 7 करोड़ से अधिक श्रद्धालुओं ने पवित्र त्रिवेणी में आस्था की डुबकी लगाने का सौभाग्य प्राप्त किया है।
— Yogi Adityanath (@myogiadityanath) January 16, 2025
संगम के पवित्र जल में पावन स्नान का पुण्य लाभ अर्जित करने वाले पूज्य साधु-संतों, 10 लाख… pic.twitter.com/jvqhGUMYJb
How are organizers counting Maha Kumbh 2025 devotees?
Advanced technology is being used to count the millions of devotees bathing in Maha Kumbh 2025. For the first time, the administration is using Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology. Over 1100 temporary CCTV cameras have been set up at the event, which sends updated data every minute. A crowd density algorithm helps in accurately counting the number of people. Additionally, the number of devotees arriving by trains, buses, boats, and private vehicles is also included. However, experts say this is more of an estimate and not entirely precise.
Ways to count the number of devotees:
We want to inform you that the crowd is being counted accurately using a special method called the crowd density algorithm. Here’s how the organizers are doing it:
- Authorities are counting the exact number of devotees using AI technology for the first time.
- The authorities set up 1,107 CCTV cameras in the fair area and in Prayagraj city.
- Cameras with AI technology update the data every minute and measure how crowded an area is.
- The crowd density algorithm and instant alerts help the authorities manage and monitor the crowd effectively.
In 2013, How was the Counting Done?
A statistical method was used for the first time during the 2013 Kumbh Mela. This method estimated that each person needed 0.25 meters of space and 15 minutes to take a bath. By calculating the data over 18 hours of bathing at 44 ghats, the number that came out was much lower than the figures provided by the administration.
Controversy and Reality
A report by DW says that many experts doubt the government’s statements. SK Yadav, a senior photographer and expert from Allahabad University, said, “Even today, there’s no exact way to count the crowd; we can only make guesses.” He stated that this year’s crowd was smaller than in 2013 and 2019.
Also Read: Pandit Indresh Upadhyay Ji Katha Upcoming Dates 2025
