Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Devotees Board Prayagraj AC Train Without Tickets – Watch Viral Video

The Maha Kumbh Mela, a sacred event held once every 144 years, kicked off in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, on January 13, attracting a massive influx of devotees. The grand occasion has drawn so many people that some have resorted to boarding trains without tickets in order to reach the site.

In a viral video, several passengers can be seen crammed into a third-tier AC train coach, many sitting in seats that are reserved for the Railway Protection Force (RPF). A few others stood in the cramped aisle as the train made its way towards Prayagraj.

Photo Credit: Instagram

The video, shared on Instagram by a fellow traveller, shows the overcrowded coach and the interaction between the man behind the camera and passengers occupying the RPF seats. When asked about their destination, one of the passengers revealed they were headed to the Maha Kumbh Mela. The video caption reads, "Without Ticket AC Coach. Prayagraj Kumbh Mela."

The post quickly went viral, sparking a range of reactions across the internet. Some users expressed disbelief, questioning whether such behaviour should be seen as acceptable. One person sarcastically asked, "Is this something to be proud of?"

Another critic chimed in, lamenting the lack of civic sense: "Then they wonder why we don't develop. Absolute zero civic sense." Some people wondered whether the situation was the same in other AC coaches, asking, "Is the situation the same in the second and first-tier AC coaches?"

On the other hand, there were those who took a more understanding approach. One person suggested, "I believe everyone should adjust, even those who do not have tickets... In the end, we all are here for the same purpose." Another supporter of the situation added, "Please adjust kar lo... Kumbh mein jaana har sanatani ka sapna hai (Please adjust a little. Going to the Kumbh is a dream for every Hindu)."

As of now, the video has amassed over 3.2 million views.