Nearly 15 million Hindus, six times the number expected, took a dip in freezing waters seeking absolution of their sins on Monday, the first day of India's festival that could draw the world's largest single gathering of humanity.

Naked Hindu ascetics and pilgrims are taking holy dips in sacred rivers in the first major bathing day of the Maha Kumbh festival, which is the largest religious congregation on Earth.

Over 10,000 security personnel, including local police and paramilitary forces have been deployed at the Sangam Ghat for surveillance. Additionally, underwater drones, 2,700 AI-enabled cameras have been installed in and around Mela Ground to ensure security of the millions of attendees.