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World famous opera queen Gioconda Vessichelli is as popular for her opera singing as she is for her love, faith, and spirituality towards India. These days Gioconda Vessichelli is in Prayagraj, India, to participate in the world's largest spiritual fair, Kumbh Mela 2025. From there I (writer of this article) am continuously in contact with her. Presenting Gioconda Vessichelli's experience straight from the Kumbh Mela.
Gioconda said, “Wow, what an amazing morning it is at the Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj. Just imagine, at 4 in the morning, the sky is starting to light up, and I am standing among thousands of sadhus, about to take a dip in the sacred river Ganges. I am absolutely ready.
I experienced a spiritual sunrise,
This is not an ordinary event, it is the largest spiritual gathering in the world. Can you believe that almost 60 million people are attending this incredible celebration? And here I am, experiencing my third Kumbh Mela and fifth dip in the holy Ganga.
- Do you know what makes this Kumbh Mela special?
Mahakumbh Mela 2025 is completely prepared for every situation and it is amazing. 4,000 hectares of fair area, 25 different sectors, 12 kilometers of stunning ghats, an area of over 1,850 hectares just for parking.
My personal experience is absolutely amazing.
As the first ray of the sun fell on the Triveni Sangam, I joined the famous Naga sadhus for the first ritual of the dawn. That energy was electrifying. Thousands of spiritual seekers, all united in this incredible moment of divine connection and devotion.
It is being told that an investment of Rs 7,000 crore has been made to make this event completely safe and spectacular. Truly unique. They're calling it a Digital Kumbh, with everything from special apps to Google Maps, to help pilgrims navigate this massive spiritual festival.
It's like practical magic.
Check out some of the amazing details that blew my mind,
1.6 lakh tents were installed here
- 650 kilometers of temporary roads were built. 30 pontoon bridges, showering flowers for the devotees, oh, this surreal feeling (what an experience of my lifetime). Now coming to my spiritual reflection that is imprinted in my heart, for me it is not just a religious event, it is a human connection, spiritual awakening, and a deep journey of pure, natural raw energy. Standing at the bank of the holy river at 4 am, surrounded by sadhus, feeling the cool Ganges water, it is a moment that is beyond everything.
Along with this spiritual journey, I also have a personal promise. The promise of purification, renewal, and spiritual growth of the mind.
This Kumbh Mela is not just a ritual. It's a commitment to something bigger than ourselves."
Since Gioconda Vessichelli does not have time to give an interview at the moment, I wrote to her on WhatsApp several questions that were on my mind, to which she responded beautifully. Here is the interview summary
- Where are you staying in Kumbh?
Gioconda: I am staying in a beautifully arranged tent at the Sangam Niwas campsite. It is quite comfortable, equipped with all modern amenities. The tent overlooks the magnificent Triveni Sangam and I am loving and awestruck by the spiritual atmosphere around me. The camp is well-maintained and comfortable and I am getting a perfect blend of experiences with traditional and contemporary decor.
- What about your breakfast, lunch, and dinner? Is there any arrangement from the government?
Gioconda: Yes yes of course, the arrangements are fantastic. I (and all the devotees) are being served delicious satvik food prepared with utmost care. The government has made elaborate arrangements for food. This food is nutritious, pure ,and prepared using traditional methods. Every meal feels like a spiritual experience, simple yet completely satisfying. The camp cooks ensure that the food not only nourishes the body but also connects to the spiritual essence of the Kumbh Mela.
- What have you seen so far?
Gioconda: I have seen many beautiful spiritual moments. The main attraction has been to see the 'Amar Vriksha' - a symbol of eternal life and spiritual continuity. The energy around Aquarius is incredible. Sadhus performing rituals, lakhs of devotees taking holy bath, mantras, colours, devotional songs, constant chanting of Har Har Mahadev, Har Har Gange. It is like a living, breathing spiritual canvas that changes every moment.
- How are all the other arrangements?
Gioconda: Absolutely great! The infrastructure is remarkable. Everything is constructed in a carefully planned manner. From security to cleanliness, from accommodation to crowd management. The government has literally created a floating city that is running smoothly. Despite millions of people, there is a sense of order and peace here.
- This is your third Kumbh visit. What changes did you notice?
Gioconda: Yes, This time I feel more spiritually developed. Every Kumbh has changed me somewhere, in some way. This time, I am more introspective, feeling more connected to the divine energy. I am beginning to understand the deeper meanings behind each ritual, and I am experiencing a profound inner journey.
- Do you know the history of Kumbh?
Gioconda: Yes, and I'm still exploring. It is a fascinating story of divine nectar, divine attainment, and spiritual significance. The mythological story of this fair is deeply embedded in our spiritual consciousness. But I'm constantly learning more, meeting monk,s and gaining new perspectives on this ancient tradition
- Have you started Kumbh Snan? (taking a dip in the holy river and bathing)
Gioconda: Of course, I took the holy bath with the monks at 4 in the morning. It was a supernatural experience. The water was definitely cold, there was a lot of mist in the morning and mantras were echoing in all directions. Taking a bath at that auspicious hour is not only a physical purification but also a spiritual cleansing.
- How is the climate there?
Gioconda: Supernatural. Not very cold. Or perhaps we devotees are not feeling the cold. Best season for spiritual practice. The weather was absolutely suitable for the holy dip between 5:21 am and 6:27 am on 14 January. The morning was with a light mist, creating a divine, ethereal atmosphere.
- Have you met the monks there?
Gioconda: Yes, I have met many monks. Each monk has a unique story and a different spiritual path. I'm listening to their wisdom, and learning about their journeys. Their simplicity, their dedication are truly inspiring.
- Last question. Are other dignitaries from around the world also there like you? Who are you with?
Gioconda: I am with my team, but we are here for spiritual purposes. There are many important people in the world here, but in Kumbh, everyone is equal in front of Mother Ganga. When fans come to me, I politely say, "Har-har Mahadev, Har-har Gange.. Now, please immerse yourself in this great spiritual feast. Fan time can wait for other days." It's about a collective spiritual experience."
Some more information:--
Nearly 6 million people have already taken the holy dip
- Duration: 45-day program running from January 13 to February 26, 2025.
- Expected pilgrims: Around 45 crore (450 million) pilgrims are expected to attend.
The rare celestial alignment occurs once every 144 years.
Special arrangements such as:
floating police station
1.5 lakh tents
-AI-powered cameras
-Kumbh Collaborative Chatbot for real-time guidance.
Interestingly, Laurene Powell Jobs (wife of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs) has also arrived for the Maha Kumbh Mela, which highlights its global importance. Celebrities like Amitabh Bachchan, Alia Bhatt, Adaa Sharma (according to reports Adaa will dance Tandav), Kailash Kher, Shankar Mahadevan, Shaan, Mohit Chauhan, and many more will attend and perform.
14th Jan 2025: Today 3.5 crores took holy bath
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