Millions of devotees of Lord Shiva have gathered at the Mahakumbh in Haridwar for the most auspicious first Shahi Snan during the ongoing Kumbha Mela festival. Taking a holy dip in the Ganga river during Mahashivratri is believed by Hindus to bring good fortune. According to mythology, the waters of the Ganga turn into nectar during the Shahi Snan days at Mahakumbh.

All participants at this year's Kumbha Mela event are required to present a negative coronavirus test result before being allowed into the festival grounds. But there was little evidence of social distancing in place on Thursday as bathers jostled at the riverbank. Mahashivaratri is celebrated annually in honor of Lord Shiva. Mahashivratri is all about overcoming ignorance and is observed by remembering Lord Shiva and chanting prayers, and fasting.

Around 5000 security personnel, hundreds of CCTVs and drones have been deployed by the Haridwar Kumbha Mela administration for surveillance.