A new AI-powered assistant, Mahakumbh AI Sahayata, is set to transform the pilgrimage experience at Mahakumbh 2025. Developed through a partnership between the CoRover and ONDC, this initiative leverages BharatGPT, a conversational AI model, to provide real-time support to millions of devotees. Pilgrims can access the AI assistant via phone call or WhatsApp at +91 7968-363636.
This initiative is a response to the challenges posed by an event of such massive scale. With over 40 crore expected visitors, seamless communication, real-time updates, and rapid emergency response mechanisms are critical. The AI assistant is tailored to address these concerns and ensure a smooth experience for every pilgrim, regardless of their location or access to the internet.
CoRover and ONDC – Mahakumbh AI Sahayata
Mahakumbh AI Sahayata is designed to be a multilingual virtual guide. It supports over 14 languages and can handle up to 1,00,000 queries and calls simultaneously. Key services include:
- Festival schedules and rituals
- Directions to key locations (ghats, temples, camps, medical aid stations)
- Accommodation details (hotels, dharamshalas, government facilities, rental options)
- Emergency assistance (police, medical aid, lost-and-found services, security alerts)
- Live crowd updates and traffic navigation
- Information on cultural events and spiritual discourses
- Weather alerts and environmental conditions
By leveraging artificial intelligence, Mahakumbh AI Sahayata provides real-time, accurate information. Pilgrims can make informed decisions, avoid overcrowded areas, and receive timely support.
ONDC MD & CEO T Koshy highlighted the role of technology in enhancing pilgrim experiences. “We are committed to leveraging AI to make events like Mahakumbh more accessible and seamless for all,” he said.
AI Technology Powering the Experience
Mahakumbh AI Sahayata operates using BharatGPT, CoRover’s large language model optimized for Indian languages and dialects. It provides context-aware, accurate responses, making interactions more intuitive for users. The AI assistant is also integrated with Bhashini, the Ministry of Electronics and IT’s language translation system, further expanding accessibility. The ability to understand regional dialects and cultural nuances ensures an inclusive experience for pilgrims from diverse linguistic backgrounds.
CoRover Founder & CEO Ankush Sabharwal emphasized, “This AI is more than a tool—it’s a companion ensuring no pilgrim is left unheard.”
Government and Industry Collaboration
The government’s involvement extends beyond Bhashini. Mahakumbh AI Sahayata also aligns with Kumbh Sah’AI’yak, another AI-driven initiative launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, featuring Krutrim, an AI chatbot developed by Ola’s Bhavish Aggarwal. This highlights a broader push toward AI-driven solutions for public services. The integration of AI in religious tourism marks a significant step toward modernizing large-scale events, ensuring efficiency, security, and accessibility.
CoRover’s Legacy in Conversational AI
Since 2016, CoRover has developed AI solutions for multiple sectors. Notable projects include:
- AskDISHA (Indian Railways & IRCTC)
- Ask PAi (NPCI)
- AskMitra (LIC)
- Chetna (DMRC)
- SEVA (SEBI)
- eSevak (Citizen Grievance Management)
CoRover recently secured USD 4 million (~INR 34 crore) in Series A funding, reinforcing its commitment to AI innovation and user-centric solutions. This funding will further enable the expansion of AI-based services and improvements in conversational AI technology, enhancing user experience across multiple platforms.
Enhancing Pilgrim Safety and Accessibility
Mahakumbh 2025 expects over 400 million visitors. Managing such an event requires efficient crowd control, real-time assistance, and seamless information sharing. AI Sahayata is positioned to provide:
- Accurate scheduling and ritual guidance
- Live crowd management updates, helping avoid congestion
- Weather alerts, enabling visitors to plan accordingly
- Personalized assistance based on location and specific needs
- Audio and text-based support for visually impaired users
- Quick links to emergency services and local help centres
- Information about nearby food, sanitation facilities, and transportation
Additionally, the system’s predictive analytics help identify potential bottlenecks in movement and crowd build-up, providing real-time alerts to authorities and pilgrims alike. This level of preparedness ensures a safer, more efficient Mahakumbh experience.
A Milestone in Religious Tourism
By integrating AI into event management, Mahakumbh AI Sahayata sets a new standard for large-scale public gatherings. With multilingual support, real-time assistance, and a focus on accessibility, this initiative ensures that pilgrims can navigate Mahakumbh 2025 with greater ease and security.
AI in religious tourism is not just about convenience—it’s about inclusion. Whether it’s ensuring that elderly pilgrims receive real-time guidance, providing real-time updates on facilities, or delivering emergency alerts, AI Sahayata represents a significant advancement in how large-scale religious events are managed. This model could serve as a blueprint for other high-footfall religious and cultural events across India in the future.
For more details related to IPO GMP, SEBI IPO Approval, and Live Subscription stay tuned to IPO Central.