For the first time ever, the number of pilgrims at the Kumbh Mela will be limited. The pandemic is the reason behind this decision which was announced by the Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Trivendra Singh Rawat last week.

The event is scheduled to be held on January 14, 2021 in Haridwar.

Entry passes and the number of pilgrims allowed will be decided later according to the situation. The COVID-19 pandemic has made it impossible to accommodate the lakhs of people who visit the Kumbh in Haridwar every year. Pilgrims will be allowed to enter the fair only on the basis of entry passes in order to keep the numbers in check. 

The Kumbh Mela is one of the largest religious fairs in the world. Rawat said that before taking this decision, he had discussed the matter with seers and saints, and they had all agreed on restricting the number of devotees. December has been fixed as the deadline for finishing all the work related to the event.