Around 700,000 pilgrims gathered on the banks of the Ganges river in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, despite COVID-19 fears as the Hindu Kumbh Mela festival began on January 14.

The festival has been dubbed the largest religious festival in the world as millions usually attend.

Devotees believe that bathing in the river will help them attain "moksha," setting them free from the cycle of life and death.

District officials have warned people to only attend after they have tested negative for COVID-19 and advised them to wear face masks.

Kumbh Mela is considered to be the largest religious gathering in the world and takes place every 12 years at four different locations. This year, the Kumbh Mela began on 14 January and it will continue till 27 April. The Mela is being held in Haridwar this time with the fair being organized on the banks of the River Ganges.

Hindu pilgrims descended on the banks of the Ganges river on Thursday, shrugging off Covid-19 risks for the start of the Kumbh Mela, a religious festival that regularly attracts millions. Hindus believe bathing will help them attain "moksha", setting them free from the cycle of birth and death. This is one of the most important religious events in India. This mela holds a great deal of significance in Hindu mythology. It is also the biggest religious gathering in the world. The social event highlights India's diverse culture and spreads the message of harmony and national integration.

The Kumbh Mela normally attracts tens of thousands, but this time the authorities are discouraging large crowds because of the risks of COVID-19. District officials have warned people to come only after they have tested negative for coronavirus and advised them to wear face masks and follow the social distancing norms. While the event was apparently a tad toned down due to COVID-19, as compared to past years, people still thronged the holy site to be part of the proceedings on an auspicious day.