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If Shehzad (the man accused of stabbing Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan) had tried his stunt at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, he’d have been identified, located, and apprehended faster than you can say 22436 Vande Bharat Express.
The AI engines would have predicted his next move, sending a drone to deliver a complimentary paratha before he could even think about using his UPI app. He wouldn’t have made it past the Blinkit stall before being caught, tagged, and probably turned into a cautionary hologram for other would-be troublemakers.
Let’s take a closer look at what’s happening at the Maha Kumbh. As crores of devotees gather for the grandest spiritual extravaganza on earth, they’re also being treated to digital innovations that would leave James Bond both shaken and stirred.
Here’s an overview of what’s happening.
AI army on patrol
It all starts with the super-smart cameras. There are 2,750 CCTV cameras across the mela, of which 328 are AI-enabled. These aren’t your typical “just recording” types. They’re constantly analysing crowd behaviour, spotting security issues, and helping manage the insane flow of 40 crore pilgrims. It’s like having a digital dadi who knows everything happening in every corner of the mela!
Flying chhatri: Drones
While devotees are taking dips and attending poojas, a whole asmaan bhar of drones are making sure everything is safe. Some drones are tethered to hover over the crowd, giving a bird’s-eye view, while others dive underwater at the Triveni Sangam, scanning the riverbed. Not to forget the anti-drone systems that are keeping out unwanted flying visitors.
Kumbh sah’AI’yak
Lost in the madness? Need to find a shortcut to the Ganga ghat, or figure out the timing for the next aarti? Just ask Kumbh Sah’AI’yak, the chatbot that’s fluent in 11 languages. It’s like having a super-smart local guide in your pocket. Honestly, this bot is so efficient it might even explain the ending of Inception without making your head spin.
QR Codes ‘FTW’
Gone are the days of long queues and paper passes. Everything’s digital now — QR codes are your ticket to the Kumbh. Whether it’s entry passes for you or vehicle permits, this system makes the entire experience smooth like butter. Think of it as a spiritual FastPass — your darshan just got a lot faster and fancier.
Smart lost-and-found
Siblings getting separated at the Kumbh Mela is a familiar plot in Indian movies. But worry not, because this time the AI-powered computerised centres are here to save the day. Whether it’s kids, grandparents, or even your wallet, these digital detectives work faster than you can finish an episode of C.I.D. They’ll match descriptions and reunite families in no time.
Maps ka jadoo
Thanks to geographic information systems (GIS), combined with Google Maps, the entire mela ground has been mapped into zones and sectors. Navigation is now as easy as finding your neighbourhood chaiwala. Whether it’s a laddoo stall or the exact spot for your holy dip, this digital mapping ensures you’ll never be lost — or hungry.
Virtual reality magic
Can’t physically make it to the Kumbh? No worries, bhaiyya. Step into one of the 360-degree VR booths and experience the rituals and events as if you’re right there — minus the bheed and the soggy clothes from the Ganges dip. It’s a true darshan experience for those stuck at home.
Tokenise your faith
Haan haan, you read that right. This year, the Kumbh is diving into the blockchain wave by offering non-fungible tokens (NFTs). These digital collectibles are for the crypto-savvy crowd who want a piece of their spiritual journey preserved in the metaverse. Imagine owning a digital prasad! Tradition meets technology, right?
Health-tech bliss
At the Kumbh, even your health is taken care of. AI-driven health systems are monitoring sanitation, keeping inventory in check, and offering quick medical assessments. Whether it’s a small ailment or just routine checks, pilgrims’ physical health is looked after as carefully as their spiritual journey.
The Maha Kumbh 2025 is more than just a religious event — it’s a showcase of India’s ability to blend the ancient with the ultra-modern. From drones keeping an eye on devotion to AI ensuring your safety, this Kumbh is taking us straight into the future, desi-style! It’s a place where technology and tradition are working hand in hand, proving that faith can move mountains — and maybe even gigabytes.
(Shubho Sengupta is a digital marketer with an analogue past)
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