Millions of Hindu pilgrims began to pour into Prayagraj in North India to take part in Kumbh Mela on January 15.<br /><br />Indian officials expect over 12 million pilgrims to bathe at the confluence of Ganga and Yamuna rivers on the occasion of Makar Sankranti, a prominent festival celebrated on January 15. <br /><br />The event, ‘Shahi Snan’ or royal bath, also draws hundreds of thousands of Indian holymen.<br /><br />Kumbh Mela that kicked off today will culminate on March 4 and is expected to draw over 150 million people – more than Russia’s population.<br /><br />The venue dotted with colourful tents is spread over 3,200 hectares. <br /><br />Devout Hindus believe that a ritual bath during Kumbh Mela will cleanse their sins and help them attain salvation.
