Maharashtra Cabinet Clears Law to Set Up Nashik Kumbh Mela Authority Ahead of 2027 Mega Event
Maharashtra Cabinet Clears Law to Set Up Nashik Kumbh Mela Authority Ahead of 2027 Mega Event
Move aimed at handling exponential rise in devotees; Authority to be modelled on Prayagraj’s setup
In a major administrative move, the Maharashtra cabinet has approved a law to establish a dedicated Kumbh Mela Authority for the upcoming Simhastha Kumbh Mela in Nashik, scheduled for 2027. The decision, announced by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday, is aimed at ensuring better planning and execution of one of the world’s largest religious gatherings.
तांत्रिकदृष्ट्या प्रगत सिंहस्थ कुंभ २०२७ च्या दिशेने नाशिक पोलिसांचे कार्य आता सुरू झाले आहे..
— नाशिक शहर पोलीस – Nashik City Police (@nashikpolice) May 7, 2025
In preparation for the upcoming Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2026–27 envisioned by Hon'ble CM & HM Shri Devendra Fadnavis ji @Dev_Fadnavis, as the Most Technologically Advanced Kumbh Mela yet,… pic.twitter.com/tfEuaxJxrr
2027 Crowd to Multiply 4-5 Times
According to the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), the 2015 Kumbh Mela in Nashik drew around 2.5 crore pilgrims. The 2027 edition is expected to witness a four- to five-fold increase in turnout, prompting the need for advance logistical preparedness.
Fadnavis said the authority will be created on the lines of the Prayagraj Kumbh Mela Authority, which had successfully handled large-scale planning, execution, and coordination in Uttar Pradesh.
“In today’s cabinet meeting held at Chondi village in Ahilyanagar district, we approved the law enabling the creation of this authority,” Fadnavis said.
Why a Dedicated Authority?
The Simhastha Kumbh Mela is held once every 12 years and draws millions of sadhus, devotees, and international tourists. A permanent authority will enable the government to:
- Begin early infrastructure and sanitation planning
- Handle crowd control and transport
- Manage environmental concerns
- Coordinate with multiple departments seamlessly
The formation of this authority is being seen as a crucial step toward modernising religious event management while maintaining the sanctity and scale of this sacred tradition.
