India, Feb. 19 -- Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday hit back at criticism of the Maha Kumbh, saying that over 56.25 crore devotees had already taken a holy dip in Prayagraj.

Calling allegations and "fake videos" against the event an attack on the faith of millions, he said the Maha Kumbh was not linked to any political party or organisation but belonged to society.

Adityanath added that the event had gained global recognition, overcoming attempts to spread misinformation.

His response came a day after West Bengal chief minister and Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee referred to the Maha Kumbh as "Mrityu Kumbh."

Speaking in the Bengal assembly on Tuesday, Banerjee referred to the January 29 stampede that...