Stunning Images from Space Capture Grandeur of Maha Kumbh Mela

The ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, has garnered worldwide attention, including from space. NASA astronaut Don Pettit, aboard the International Space Station (ISS), shared breathtaking images of the event, showcasing the illuminated gathering of pilgrims from a height of 400 km.

Pettit tweeted about the event, describing it as "the largest human gathering in the world" and highlighting the vibrant lights surrounding the Ganges River during the night. The visuals depict the sprawling tent city at the Sangam, where the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers converge.

Held once every 144 years, the Maha Kumbh Mela attracts millions of devotees for its deep spiritual significance and massive scale. The Uttar Pradesh government has invested Rs 400 crore to ensure adequate facilities during the 45-day festival, which began on January 13, including 182 km of high-tension electricity lines, 40,000 rechargeable bulbs, and enhanced security measures such as 2,700 CCTV cameras.

The images shared by Pettit have generated significant interest on social media, with many users expressing awe at the remarkable sight from space. The Maha Kumbh Mela continues to be one of the most celebrated religious events, drawing pilgrims from across the globe.