The Prayagraj Mela Authority has announced an ambitious plan to set four Guinness World Records during Mahakumbh 2025, the world’s largest religious gathering, scheduled to begin on January 13. The proposed records include the largest synchronized sweeping drive, the largest e-vehicle parade, the most handprint paintings created in eight hours, and the largest river-cleaning campaign.
The first record attempt will involve 15,000 volunteers participating in a synchronized cleaning drive. ADM (Kumbh Mela) Vivek Chaturvedi said the effort symbolizes environmental stewardship and communal responsibility. "The drive will highlight the spiritual significance of cleanliness and environmental preservation," he added.
The second initiative will feature a parade of 1,000 e-rickshaws and electric vehicles, promoting eco-friendly transport. "This initiative underscores Mahakumbh’s commitment to sustainable transport solutions, reducing carbon emissions, and improving last-mile connectivity," Chaturvedi stated.
The third record will involve 10,000 participants contributing their handprints on canvas, representing unity and diversity. Each print will symbolize the shared spiritual values and collective harmony of Mahakumbh.
The final record attempt will see 300 volunteers cleaning riverbanks at multiple locations. This drive highlights ecological conservation and the spiritual connection between humanity and nature, central themes of the religious gathering.
To ensure compliance with Guinness World Records’ stringent guidelines, a special coordination team will be formed in collaboration with the Prayagraj Mela Authority. The team will manage logistics, ensure accurate record-keeping, and oversee procedural adherence.
“Our team will coordinate with Guinness World Records officials to finalize contracts, interpret performance guidelines, and develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs),” Chaturvedi explained. He emphasized that all processes, from participant registration to event execution, will follow approved guidelines.
The records, if achieved, will reinforce Mahakumbh’s legacy as a globally significant cultural and spiritual event, combining tradition with environmental consciousness and community engagement.
Mahakumbh Mela 2025 is set to be more than just a spiritual event; it promises to be a major economic driver for Uttar Pradesh. The upcoming Mahakumbh expected to generate ?25,000 crore in revenue for the state. Covering approximately 4,000 hectares, the Mahakumbh is projected to attract 40-45 crore pilgrims, making it the largest religious gathering in the world. The event’s estimated budget stands at ?6,382 crore, with ?5,600 crore already allocated for event management and infrastructure development.
The ghats of Prayagraj, a key site for devotees and tourists, are being given a grand makeover. On the lines of Kashi's ghats, the UP government is renovating seven prominent ghats along the Ganga and Yamuna rivers to offer a more refined and welcoming experience.
The renovation focuses on creating an environment where visitors can comfortably spend time, reflecting the significance of the Kumbh Mela. The project is being carried out by the Construction and Design Division of Jal Nigam at a cost of Rs 11.01 crore.
