118-Member Diplomatic Delegation From 77 Nations Visits Maha Kumbh Mela
A diplomatic delegation comprising 118 members visited the Maha Kumbh Mela Kshetra on Saturday, describing it as a "once-in-a-lifetime experience".
The 100-member delegation, including Heads of Mission and their spouses, diplomats from 77 nations, arrived at the event, which is being held once every 144 years. Representations from countries such as Slovakia, Argentina, Zimbabwe, among others were present.
Among those who attended the grand event included Slovak Ambassador to India Robert Maxian, who congratulated the government on hosting the spectacular spiritual gathering. "I am very excited and want to congratulate your government for organising this great spiritual event... I am a fan of India," said Maxian.
Argentina's ambassador Mariano Caucino expressed his happiness over participating in the grand ceremony. "I am very happy to take part in this important ceremony and follow the traditions."
Stella Nkomo, Zimbabwe's ambassador to India, stated that it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for them and they are grateful to the Uttar Pradesh government for hosting them.
Christian Villarreal, Bolivia's Head of Mission in India said he received an invitation to last year’s Diwali celebrations but "nothing compares to this occasion".
Since its inception, over 314.6 million devotees had participated in the ritual, with more than 5.42 million participants during Saturday’s bathing rituals alone.
Representatives from across the globe are participating in the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 that kicked off on January 13 will conclude on February 26. The unique gathering attracts ascetics, saints, sadhus, sadhvis, Kalpavasis, and pilgrims.
Key statistics:
- Over 314 million devotees participated.
- More than 1.15 million people bathed in Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati during Saturday's ceremony alone.