Naked Hindu ascetics, known for their dreadlocks, took a “royal bath” in sacred Indian rivers as part of the Maha Kumbh Mela festival. The event, held every 12 years, is expected to boost the economy by $30 billion-$35 billion and attract over 400 million people.
The second day of the six-week festival saw 35 million devotees take the holy dip, seeking absolution from their sins and salvation from the cycle of birth and death. Thousands watched as the ascetics charged into the freezing waters, some carrying tridents or maces.
The festival is based on a Hindu belief that four drops of immortality fell to earth, one in Prayagraj, during a battle between gods and demons. The event has been described as “great” because its timing is considered more auspicious, drawing bigger crowds.
Organizers have set up nearly 150,000 tents across 4,000 hectares to accommodate visitors, while security officers are on guard to ensure the smooth running of the festival. With an estimated budget of $800 million, analysts predict that the event will boost economic growth by $30 billion to $35 billion.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/india/dreadlocked-indian-ascetics-take-holy-dip-hindu-kumbh-festival-2025-01-14