In the midst of the ongoing Mahakumbh 2025 in Prayagraj, a viral video shared by social media influencer Nidhi Chaudhary has raised alarms about the conditions pilgrims are facing at the event. Nidhi, who is currently stranded in the Divya Mahakumbh retreat in Jhusi, near Prayagraj, along with her elderly parents, urged prospective devotees to consider visiting the Mahakumbh after February 5, citing chaotic conditions and severe transportation issues.

Nidhi Chaudhary’s Ordeal at Mahakumbh 2025

In her video shared on X (formerly Twitter), Nidhi expressed her frustration with the situation, stating that the lack of transportation made it feel more like participating in the stunt-based reality TV show "Khatron Ke Khiladi". According to her, there are no cabs available within the retreat, and devotees must walk for several kilometers to even reach the point where taxis or e-rickshaws can be hailed. She claimed that the transportation costs are exorbitant, with some cabs charging between ₹15,000 and ₹20,000, yet they do not enter the complex, forcing pilgrims to walk long distances to access basic transport options.

Nidhi also highlighted how the experience at Mahakumbh 2025 feels like one hurdle after another, as she likened the chaos to a series of exams. “It’s been one task after another,” she said, reflecting on her attempts to return home, which have proven more challenging than anticipated.

Devastating Stampede at Mahakumbh 2025

On January 30, 2025, a deadly stampede occurred at Mahakumbh 2025, during the Mauni Amavasya bathing festival, which saw an overwhelming number of pilgrims gathered at the Sangam (the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati River). 30 people tragically lost their lives, and 60 others were injured in the incident, highlighting the dangerous overcrowding at the event. Many of the victims were from Bihar, and the event marked a dark moment in what is usually a joyous and spiritual occasion for millions.

The stampede took place due to the sheer volume of pilgrims who had come for the holy dip, and the lack of crowd control measures resulted in a crush of devotees in the confined space near the Sangam area. The incident underscores the risks associated with large-scale religious gatherings, especially when they coincide with important events like Mauni Amavasya.

Why Visit Mahakumbh 2025 After February 5?

In her posts and videos, Nidhi Chaudhary emphasized that conditions might improve after February 5, when the rush of pilgrims might begin to ease. She advised people planning to visit Mahakumbh to consider going after this date to avoid the extreme overcrowding and logistical challenges that are currently overwhelming the area. Her warning came as a result of her personal struggles to navigate the retreat and her concern for fellow pilgrims, particularly those traveling with young children or the elderly.

Additional Issues Faced by Pilgrims

Apart from the transportation crisis, other issues that have plagued Mahakumbh 2025 include lack of adequate facilities and resources to accommodate the high number of pilgrims. There have been reports of long queues, insufficient medical aid, and increased safety risks due to overcrowding. Nidhi’s video and comments reflect the larger concerns of the public, which have been exacerbated by the deadly stampede.

Is Mahakumbh 2025 Safe to Attend?

Given the rising concerns over overcrowding, transportation issues, and the tragic stampede, it is essential for pilgrims to plan their visits carefully. Those intending to visit should stay updated on the latest safety measures and logistical support provided by event organizers. It’s also important to heed the advice of influencers and local authorities about when and how to visit to ensure a safer and more comfortable experience.

How to Stay Safe at Mahakumbh 2025

If you're planning to attend the Mahakumbh 2025 in Prayagraj, it’s recommended to:

• Avoid peak periods like Mauni Amavasya if possible.
• Stay informed about crowd management plans and safety measures.
• Ensure your transportation arrangements are made well in advance.
• Follow local advisories and safety protocols to avoid overcrowded areas.

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