Source: News-India times
ALLAHABAD, INDIA, March 2, 2001: The grand Maha Kumbh Mela which started January 9th and ended February 21st on Maha Sivaratri nourished over 100 million pilgrims at the “Sangam.” Hindu pilgrims travelled long distances and suffered hardship to participate in the event. Certain auspicious days during the 42-day festival attracted millions of fervent devotees. Having left Allahabad on February 8th to participate in the festivities in Benares, most Holy Men had moved on by February 21st. Those seeking peace, after the crowds left, stayed for the last sacred bath.