By Saurabh Sharma PRAYAGRAJ, India (Reuters) -Naked Hindu ascetics smeared in holy ash charged into the waters of sacred rivers in India on Tuesday, part of a large crowd of 35 million devotees who took the holy dip on the second day of the Maha Kumbh Mela,

This is what we call love right 🥺♾️ ❤️ pic.twitter.com/JHVpGSkwtg The post uploaded by Mishra and showing her father soaking himself in the Maha Kumbh Mela celebrations along with his mother's picture has gone viral on social media and left netizens in tears.

Over 70 million devotees have participated in the world's biggest religious congregation; over 35 million on the occasion of Makar Sankranti on January 14.

Nearly 15 million Hindus, six times the number expected, took a dip in freezing waters seeking absolution of their sins on Monday, the first day of India's festival that could draw the world's largest single gathering of humanity.

A 21-member team from 10 countries will take the holy dip, symbolizing unity and devotion. Get the latest updates on this historic event.

The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 is in full swing, and one of its most fascinating aspects is the presence of the Naga Sadhus. Known for their mysterious lives and spiritual strength, these ascetics are an integral part of India’s grandest religious gathering.

Taking sacred baths at Maha Kumbh Mela is believed to purify the soul and wash away sins. Let’s look at the dates of all the shahi snan, history, and significance of the holy mela.

Tens of thousands of Hindus seeking absolution of their sins immersed themselves on Monday in freezing waters at the confluence of sacred rivers, as India began a six-week festival expected to draw the world's largest gathering of humanity.

Over 10,000 security personnel, including local police and paramilitary forces have been deployed at the Sangam Ghat for surveillance. Additionally, underwater drones, 2,700 AI-enabled cameras have been installed in and around Mela Ground to ensure security of the millions of attendees.

Thousands participate in Maha Kumbh at Triveni Sangam; global delegation visits, showcasing India's rich cultural heritage.

Naked Hindu ascetics smeared in holy ash charged into the waters of sacred rivers in India on Tuesday, part of a large crowd of 35 million devotees who took the holy dip on the second day of the Maha Kumbh Mela,