Tragic Incidents at Kumbh Mela: A Historical Overview
Tragic Incidents at Kumbh Mela: A Historical Overview The Kumbh Mela is one of the world's largest religious gatherings, attracting millions of Hindu devotees to bathe at the confluence of sacred rivers. While it is a profound spiritual event, the massive influx of pilgrims has occasionally led to tragic crowd-related incidents. This report delves into the history of stampedes at the Kumbh Mela, analyzing causes, consequences, and preventive measures. Understanding Kumbh Mela Held every 12 years at four rotating locations—Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik—the Kumbh Mela is a significant Hindu festival. Devotees gather to perform ritualistic baths, seeking spiritual purification. The event's scale, with attendees often numbering in the tens of millions, presents substantial logistical and safety challenges. Notable Stampede Incidents 1954 Prayagraj Stampede In 1954, during the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad), a catastrophic stampede result...