In a heartwarming display of humanitarian service, the traditional lost and found camp known as 'Bhoole Bhatke Shivir' at the ongoing Magh Mela in Prayagraj has achieved a significant milestone. The camp has successfully reunited 2,129 missing individuals with their families during the current event, contributing to an astounding cumulative total of 15.38 lakh people reunited over the past 80 years.
A Legacy of Compassion Spanning Eight Decades
Established in 1946 by its founder, the late Raja Ram Tiwari, the Bhoole Bhatke Shivir has been a beacon of hope during major religious gatherings such as the Magh Mela, Ardh Kumbh, and Kumbh. From its inception until 2025, the camp has facilitated the reunion of 15.38 lakh people, including an impressive 22,000 children who were separated from their families.
Current Magh Mela Statistics Reveal Dedicated Efforts
Umesh Tiwari, the current organiser of the camp, shared detailed statistics with TOI, highlighting the camp's recent achievements. Between January 1 and 26, 2026, volunteers managed to reunite 2,219 people, comprising 1,300 men, 745 women, and 84 children. "Volunteers of three generations are working round the clock on the banks of the Ganga with the one and sole motto of serving mankind," Tiwari emphasised, underscoring the camp's unwavering commitment to humanitarian service.
Embracing Modern Technology for Greater Impact
While maintaining traditional manual records, the camp has evolved with the times by incorporating social media and digital platforms to enhance its reunion efforts. This innovative approach has proven particularly effective, as demonstrated during the Maha Kumbh-2025, where volunteers successfully reunited over 54,000 individuals. "Volunteers from different districts and states are working for a noble cause, and the majority of them were engaged on main bathing days," Tiwari noted, highlighting the collaborative nature of their operations.
Round-the-Clock Service with Personal Touch
A dedicated group of 20 active volunteers has joined the effort at the mela campus, committing to stay until the last main snan of Maha Shivratri on February 15. Their work extends beyond mere reunification, as one volunteer explained: "We feel inner satisfaction to reunite lost people with their families. When lost people stay at the camp, we offer them food and a blanket and take care of them until they are safely reunited." This comprehensive care approach ensures that missing individuals receive both physical comfort and emotional support during their temporary stay.
The Bhoole Bhatke Shivir continues to stand as a testament to community service and compassion, blending decades of tradition with modern technological advancements to serve humanity during India's largest religious gatherings.
