A devastating crowd crush occurred early Wednesday at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, India, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. The tragedy unfolded as millions of Hindu devotees gathered to bathe in the holy river on one of the most sacred days of the festival.
According to the festival’s executive officer, a barrier near the river collapsed as large crowds made their way to the riverbanks for their sacred dip. Hospital sources informed CNN that they had received 35 bodies, with more expected, signaling that the death toll could climb. Approximately 20 individuals were treated for minor injuries, though local authorities have yet to confirm the exact number of fatalities.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over the tragedy, acknowledging the loss of “virtuous souls” and offering condolences to the victims’ families. He also wished for the swift recovery of those injured and mentioned that he was in continuous contact with the Uttar Pradesh state government.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath stated that some devotees were seriously injured in the crush and urged people to refrain from spreading rumors about the incident.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes near the riverbank, with several dead bodies seen by the water. Reuters shared images showing bodies being carried away on stretchers, and video footage captured ambulances rushing through the crowded area as casualties were transported to nearby hospitals. Security personnel were seen assisting devotees amidst blankets and personal belongings scattered on the ground.
Devotees reported that the incident took place around 1:30 a.m. local time. People were seen panicking, running in all directions, and falling over in the chaos. Many families were separated in the surge, and some individuals remain unaccounted for. While some had already completed their ritual bathing and were resting by the river, the crush left others in distress.
