As the Maha Kumbh 2025 draws to a close on Wednesday, it leaves behind an unforgettable spiritual and cultural imprint on the millions who gathered at Prayagraj to witness and partake in this sacred Hindu tradition. Among the staggering 650 million devotees who visited the holy site over the past weeks, an estimated 3 million were foreign visitors, drawn from all corners of the world to experience the largest congregation of faith on the planet. For them, the Maha Kumbh was not just a festival—it was an overwhelming immersion into India's deep-rooted spirituality, traditions, and sense of unity.
The sheer scale of the event was breathtaking, even for Indians accustomed to large gatherings, but for foreigners, it was an experience beyond anything they had ever encountered. The crowds, the energy, the vibrant colors, the devotional chants, and the unwavering faith of the pilgrims created an atmosphere that was at once electric and profoundly serene. Despite initial apprehensions about the logistics of managing such a vast crowd, visitors from around the world were struck by how seamlessly everything was organized.
Ana from Mexico City summed up her experience by saying that the Maha Kumbh gave her an “overwhelming feeling of oneness.” She, along with other travelers from the US, Colombia, Chile, and Italy, marveled at how people from all walks of life—regardless of nationality, language, or background—came together in this grand spiritual gathering. "For all of us, the biggest and most beautiful thing we have witnessed is the kindness of people and their beautiful acts of generosity to strangers," she said. "The biggest takeaway is the love and devotion Indians have for everything and everyone."
Lolly from California, US, was equally awed, calling the Maha Kumbh “better than I had imagined.” She admitted that she initially feared being overwhelmed by the sheer number of people, but once there, she felt a deep sense of peace. “It was overwhelming in the best way possible,” she said, emphasizing how the atmosphere was filled with warmth, respect, and spiritual energy. "Everyone has been willing to offer something," she added, referring to the hospitality and generosity of the Indian people.
Since the Maha Kumbh began on January 13, nearly 650 million people have taken a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers. This act of bathing in the sacred waters is believed to cleanse the soul of sins and grant spiritual liberation. On Wednesday, the festival’s final day, approximately 10 million more devotees are expected to take part in the last Shahi Snan (royal bath) on the occasion of Maha Shivratri, marking the culmination of this unparalleled spiritual event.
Jose, a devotee from Spain, described his experience as deeply fulfilling. "I took the holy dip, and I enjoyed it very much. I am very lucky," he said, feeling blessed to be part of such a revered tradition. Many international visitors felt that the Maha Kumbh was a gateway to understanding India in its purest form—its spirituality, its traditions, and its people.
Christine, a Russian traveler, was left speechless, struggling to describe the energy she felt at the Maha Kumbh. "I can't even begin to explain the vibe of the place," she said. "I am shaking because of the energy of the people of this holy place." Avigail from Austria echoed this sentiment, calling the Maha Kumbh a “once-in-a-lifetime experience” that gave her a newfound appreciation for India and its culture. "This is where I have truly started understanding the people of India," she added.
Initially, the Ministry of External Affairs and the Uttar Pradesh government had estimated that around 1.5 million foreigners would attend the Maha Kumbh. However, the actual turnout far exceeded expectations. Tourism and Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat announced in late January that the estimate had been doubled to 3 million, given the immense enthusiasm among international visitors. On February 1, a special delegation of 118 foreign diplomats and their spouses took a ceremonial dip at the Sangam, further highlighting the global significance of this event.
Among the dignitaries was Colombia’s Ambassador to India, Victor Hugo Echeverri Jaramillo, who described his experience as deeply moving. "When you see so many people engrossed in spirituality here at the confluence of the rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati, one feels a strange power," he remarked. Diana Alipova, the wife of the Russian Ambassador to India, praised the organization and cleanliness of the event, noting that despite the massive crowds, everything was well-managed.
For many first-time visitors, the Maha Kumbh shattered preconceived notions about India and offered a profound lesson in faith, devotion, and community spirit. Lolly from California reflected on how the generosity of the people made her feel completely at ease, despite being surrounded by millions. "I didn’t expect it to be so comfortable with so many people around. It was better than anything I had imagined," she said.
Ana from Mexico, who was deeply touched by the kindness of strangers, described how her unplanned trip turned into one of the most beautiful experiences of her life. “Magical things happen in India,” she said. "Just being in this land is holy and divine. I feel blessed."
The Maha Kumbh is not just a religious gathering—it is a symbol of India’s spiritual and philosophical heritage. The energy and devotion that radiated from the festival will be carried to all corners of the world by the 3 million foreign visitors who attended, spreading the message of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the world is one family. As the festival comes to an end, it leaves behind not just memories but an enduring spiritual connection that will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to witness its grandeur.
