Ticket to ride or not? Viral video shows ticketless travelers invading first class on Way to Mahakumbh | WATCH

Viral Video: As millions flock to Prayagraj for the Mahakumbh Mela, a stark contrast emerges between the orderly first-class compartments and the chaotic scenes of ticketless passengers flooding premium train sections.
Amidst reports of stone-pelting and overcrowded trains, one passenger's video captures the unexpected reality of the holy pilgrimage: even luxury travel isn't immune to the masses seeking a sacred dip at the Triveni Sangam.

A Tale of Two Journeys

Piyush Agarwal, traveling to Prayagraj for the Mahakumbh Mela in a first AC compartment, documented a journey that began with the promise of comfort but quickly devolved into chaos. Agarwal shared a video showcasing his spacious and relatively empty cabin, a stark contrast to the overcrowded general compartments.

Ticketless Travelers Take Over

However, upon opening his compartment door, Agarwal revealed a shocking scene: the corridor was packed with women sitting on the floor and men standing in the narrow passage. These ticketless passengers had infiltrated the premium section, seeking a free ride to the holy event. The video, which went viral on Instagram with over 26 million views, sparked outrage and disbelief among viewers.

Chaos and Discomfort

The incident highlights the extreme measures people are taking to reach the Mahakumbh Mela. Reports have surfaced of overcrowding, stone-pelting at trains in Bihar, and widespread ticketless travel. One passenger reported being "put in house arrest" inside their cabin and unable to access the toilet due to the congestion.

Millions Gather for Holy Dip

The Mahakumbh Mela, held in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26, 2025, attracts millions of pilgrims seeking to cleanse their sins in the holy waters of the Triveni Sangam13. Over 48 crore (480 million) devotees have already taken a dip in the Sangam. The scale of the event often leads to logistical challenges and overcrowding, as evidenced by the train incident.