In a heartfelt display of unity, prayers and aid were offered for stampede victims, mosques sheltered thousands, and a hero saved a life with CPR
As the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 began on January 13, 2025 and Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, welcomed millions of devotees who arrived in large numbers to take part in the world’s biggest sacred event and human gathering. Despite unfortunate reports suggesting restrictions on Muslim participation in the Kumbh and the opening of businesses, the tragedy of the stampede on Mauni Amavasya (January 29, 2025) proved to be a pivotal moment, bringing people together across religious divides.
During the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, the spirit of unity and humanity was vividly displayed through several heartwarming acts. Farhan Alam, a volunteer, saved the life of Ram Shankar, a devotee who collapsed from a heart attack, by performing CPR in a swift and decisive manner. This heroic act went viral, showcasing his selflessness. Meanwhile, in the wake of a tragic stampede, the Muslim community in Prayagraj demonstrated remarkable hospitality by opening their homes and mosques to provide shelter, food, and medical aid to over 25,000 stranded devotees.
Amidst the systematic hate leading to growing anger and despair, it is important to showcase a lived reality of camaraderie, equality and sharing which is the bedrock of the Indian Constitution and secularism. That way we not only hold on to every thread of hope, but effectively project these narratives, lest we lose our will to fight the good fight. As part of our #EverydayHarmony series, CJP brings you instances where Indians share and care, every single day… our food, our businesses, our homes and our friendships. This instances show how we Indians continue to reject hateful and divisive agendas even while street violence and social media are used as part of a sinister, hate-filled political agenda to tell us otherwise. Let’s reinforce India’s everyday lived reality, and through that collectively and aggressively, uphold and defend a unique pluralism, a diverse culture and truly secular values.
These acts of compassion, alongside other efforts like offering prayers in Dargahs and distributing food, epitomized the true spirit of Ganga-Jamuni culture, transcending religious boundaries to serve humanity.
Farhan Alam saves life of devotee, 35-years old Ram Shankar at Maha Kumbh with CPR
During the Maha Kumbh Mela, an inspiring act of humanity unfolded when Farhan Alam Idrisi, a volunteer from Prime Rose Education, saved the life of a devotee who had suffered a heart attack. The 35-year-old devotee, Ram Shankar, suddenly collapsed, losing consciousness amidst the massive crowd. Farhan, witnessing the incident, quickly acted, performing CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) to revive the unconscious devotee. A video capturing Farhan’s swift and decisive action went viral on social media, drawing praise for his bravery and presence of mind.
Farhan’s timely intervention, Ram Shankar was revived and rushed to a nearby hospital for further treatment. Eyewitnesses hailed his selfless act, emphasizing how his knowledge of CPR and quick thinking were pivotal in saving the devotee’s life. This heart-warming moment highlights the true spirit of unity, where individuals rise above religious boundaries, working together to save lives and demonstrate compassion during times of crisis.
Muslims open Mosques, serve 25,000 with food, shelter, and care
As reported by Dainik Bhaskar, the Maha Kumbh Mela – 2025, which began on January 13, 2025, was marked by a tragic stampede as devotees arrived for the Mauni Amavasya dip. Barricades were set up near the Sangam. As people rushed forward, those who fell were trampled in the ensuing stampede, resulting in the deaths of 30 individuals and injuries to over 60 others. The aftermath, with crying relatives searching for loved ones and blood-soaked bodies, was a scene of horror. As reported, “The crowd kept crushing him. The scene after the stampede was horrifying”
