Of the 650 million devotees at Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj, 3 million were foreigners. Visitors described feeling "oneness" and praised India's hospitality. Ana from Mexico called it a "magical" experience, while Lolly from California found it "better than imagined." Many highlighted India's generosity and spiritual energy. Security and organization were also commended. "I feel blessed," Ana added. Officials revised estimates from 1.5 million to 3 million due to global interest. Maha Kumbh 2025 showcased India's spiritual heritage to the world.

Dattatraya Ramdas Gade (36), accused of raping a 26-year-old woman inside a parked bus at Pune’s Swargate bus station, remains on the run. Gade has multiple cases of theft, robbery, and chain-snatching in Pune and Ahilyanagar and was out on bail since 2019. Posing as a conductor, he lured the victim into the bus. CCTV footage captured them walking towards it. Authorities learned about the crime four hours later. Pune police have formed eight teams to track him down. "We are using all technical means to locate the accused," said Deputy Commissioner of Police Smartana Patil.

The Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj concluded on February 26 with a record 66 crore attendees. Viral figures like Monalisa, a garland seller from Madhya Pradesh, and IIT Baba, an IIT Bombay graduate-turned-spiritual figure, captured social media attention. Tragedy struck with a January 29 stampede at the Sangam, killing 30, and an NDLS stampede on February 15 claiming 18 lives. Fires damaged camps, while water pollution raised concerns. Opposition leaders slammed the Uttar Pradesh government over safety failures. The final holy dip on Mahashivratri marked the event’s end, blending faith, controversy, and unexpected fame.

A 26-year-old woman was allegedly raped inside a stationary Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) bus at Pune's Swargate depot. The accused, Dattatraya Gade, has a criminal record, and police have launched a manhunt. Authorities suspended 23 security guards over security lapses. Shiv Sena (UBT) workers vandalized the depot, demanding accountability. Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar condemned the crime, calling for the death penalty. Police are intensifying efforts to arrest the accused. Security at the depot is being reviewed to prevent future incidents. The government has assured strict action against negligence.

Kerala Police are probing the shocking murder of five people by 23-year-old Afan in Thiruvananthapuram, focusing on financial debt rather than drug use. Afan, who confessed and is hospitalised, allegedly killed his grandmother, uncle, aunt, younger brother, and girlfriend before surrendering. The family owed ₹64 lakh to multiple lenders, and Afan had recently pawned stolen gold. Investigators await toxicology reports and digital evidence. His mother, also attacked, is recovering. Authorities are working to bring Afan’s father back from Saudi Arabia. Police have deployed 25 officers to investigate the brutal killings.

The Indian government has approved the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) to provide assured pensions to central government employees. Effective April 1, 2025, the UPS guarantees 50% of the average basic salary from the last 12 months before retirement for employees with a minimum of 25 years of service. Employees with at least 10 years of service are eligible for a minimum pension of ₹10,000 per month. The government's contribution to the pension fund will increase from 14% to 18.5%. This initiative aims to address concerns over the existing National Pension Scheme (NPS), which links payouts to market returns.

The Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, India, concludes on February 26 after 45 days, drawing a record 63 crore visitors. The final Amrit Snan takes place on Mahashivratri. Despite grand celebrations, the event saw tragic incidents, including a January 29 stampede that killed 30 and injured 60. Authorities deployed massive security and arranged 350 additional trains for pilgrims. Dignitaries like Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu attended. The event, held every 144 years, remains the world’s largest religious gathering, steeped in Hindu traditions and mythology.

Rescue teams in Telangana continue efforts to save 8 trapped workers inside the collapsed Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel. Indian Army, Navy, NDRF, and GSI experts say the operation is among the “most complex” due to thick silt and water flow. Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy cited geological factors for the collapse and stressed safety concerns for rescuers. Authorities are considering drilling from the top or side to reach the trapped workers. No communication has been established yet. Nagarkurnool officials confirm that dewatering efforts continue, but heavy sludge is blocking access beyond the tunnel boring machine.

A 23-year-old man, Afan, allegedly killed five family members in Kerala's Thiruvananthapuram district before surrendering to the police on Monday. The victims included his teenage brother, grandmother, uncle, aunt, and his girlfriend. His mother survived but remains critical.   According to police, Afan used a hammer to attack the victims across three locations. Reports indicate he showed no remorse and even left money scattered near his brother’s body. Authorities suspect drug abuse played a role in the crime. The investigation continues.

Three devotees were killed and two injured after a herd of 15 elephants attacked them near Talakona temple in Andhra Pradesh’s Annamayya district. The attack occurred around 2:30 am as 30 devotees walked through the forest road ahead of Mahashivratri celebrations. Police confirmed the deceased included two men and a woman from Railway Kodur and Urlagadda Podu Arundhati Nagar. Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan announced ₹10 lakh aid for the victims’ families and ₹5 lakh for the injured. Authorities urged increased safety measures for temple visitors. Survivors were escorted home, while the injured received medical care.