Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the nation on Friday (15th August, 2025) from the ramparts of the Red Fort, described the success of the recently concluded Prayagraj Maha Kumbh as proof of India’s strength and vitality. In his 103-minute speech on the 79th Independence Day, PM Modi referred to the Maha Kumbh.
This was his longest Independence Day address to date. Speaking about the Maha Kumbh, PM Modi said it is a great wonder for the world—where millions gather with a single sentiment, a single resolve, and a single effort. He called the Maha Kumbh a living example of unity in diversity. It showcases the country’s cultural heritage on the global stage.
PM Modi recalled the Maha Kumbh on Independence Day
In his speech, the Prime Minister made a special mention of the Maha Kumbh, which was held in Prayagraj in January–February 2025. He said the success of the Maha Kumbh is the greatest example of unity in diversity. During the address, he spoke of the crores of devotees at the Triveni Sangam who arrived there of their own accord, without any formal invitation. Modi called it a symbol of India’s organizational capability. It is a cultural cohesion that amazes the world.
He also spoke about farmers’ welfare, new schemes, and achievements such as Operation Sindoor. Yet he gave special prominence to the Maha Kumbh as a matter of cultural pride. This was his 12th consecutive Independence Day address.
Maha Kumbh as the foremost example of mega-management
The 2025 Maha Kumbh ran from 13 January to 26 February—the world’s largest religious gathering—with an estimated 660 million devotees participating. The event site covered 10,000 acres, with an additional 5,000 acres allotted for parking. Digital technology, drone surveillance, and AI-based crowd control were used in management. Security arrangements were extensive, including thousands of police personnel, CCTV cameras, and emergency medical facilities. A stampede did occur. However, swift action brought the situation under control.
Transport facilities included special trains, helicopter services, and improved roads, ensuring smooth travel for pilgrims. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath left no stone unturned in preparations for the Maha Kumbh. He visited Prayagraj several times, with weekly reviews from December 2024 to January 2025. The government focused especially on housing, transport, and sanitation, including cleaning the Ganga and building temporary bridges. For better administration, a new district unit was constituted in Prayagraj.
Thanks to the Yogi government’s proactive approach, the event was not only successful but also stood as an example of India’s administrative capacity. The Chief Minister also said that no effort was spared in preparations, which earned global appreciation.
Indian culture, alive and embodied
The Maha Kumbh is a living symbol of India’s ancient cultural heritage, where people from different castes, faiths, and regions gather for a holy dip in the Ganga. The event keeps alive Hindu traditions—such as the legend of the quest for amrita—and reveals India’s spiritual depth to the world. PM Modi called it an example of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.” It turns diversity into strength.
The Maha Kumbh is not only religious; it also conveys messages of social harmony and environmental protection. This establishes India’s Sanatan culture on the global stage. This event—and the Prime Minister’s address—underscores India’s progress and cultural pride, which will only grow stronger in the years to come.
