Mahakumbh visitor shares the '5,000' reason why he returned home without taking holy dip in the 144-year kumbh mela

Maha Kumbh 2025 has drawn massive crowds to Prayagraj, with thousands of devotees gathering at the Sangam for the holy dip on Magh Purnima. However, for some, the journey has become too difficult. One such pilgrim, Dinesh Rana, shared his struggle with News18, explaining why he had to return home without taking the sacred bath.

As per News18, Dinesh and his friends left for Maha Kumbh by bus last Friday. The trip, which usually takes 10-12 hours, turned into a two-day ordeal. By Sunday morning, they were still 20 km away from the Sangam coast. Public transport was scarce, and e-rickshaws demanded Rs 1,000 for the short ride. Bikers were offering lifts for Rs 500-600, but the group decided to walk.

After reaching the Sangam, exhaustion took over. The group searched for a hotel to rest before taking the dip. However, the usual room rates of Rs 1,000 per day had shot up to Rs 5,000 per hour! Unable to find an affordable stay, Dinesh and his friends were left with no choice but to head back home.


The return journey was no easier. Their bus was stuck on the outskirts of the city, and the crowd was desperate to board. Some even tried to enter through the driver’s seat. Prices for basic necessities were also inflated, while a water bottle cost Rs 20, a cup of tea was selling for Rs 50.