Chandigarh, Jan 3: Lakhs of devotees braved freezing temperatures to take a ritual dip at the Sangam in Prayagraj on Saturday as the annual Magh Mela began on the occasion of Paush Purnima, officials said.
Around 9 lakh people had taken the holy dip by 10 a.m., according to Magh Mela authorities, marking the start of the month-long religious gathering that includes the observance of Kalpavas.
Despite biting cold conditions, pilgrims from across the country, including elderly devotees and children, arrived at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati from the early hours.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, in a post on X, extended greetings to devotees and religious leaders.
“Salutations to Goddess Ganga and best wishes to all devotees on the commencement of Magh Mela and the auspicious occasion of Paush Purnima,” he said. “May Mother Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati fulfil everyone’s wishes.”
Kalpavas, believed to be a period of spiritual discipline and penance, also began on Saturday. During this time, devotees take two ritual baths daily, eat one simple meal and spend their days in prayer and meditation.
Acharya Rajendra Mishra, president of the Triveni Sangam Aarti Seva Samiti, said nearly 5 lakh devotees were expected to begin Kalpavas on the first day.
“Due to the cold, the morning crowd was slightly thinner, but the number of devotees will increase as the day progresses,” he said.
Rajendra Paliwal, president of the Prayag Dham Sangh, said the total footfall could reach around 20 lakh by evening, including Kalpavasis.
Prayagraj Divisional Commissioner Soumya Agarwal said preparations had been made for a large turnout. “Between 20 and 30 lakh devotees are expected to bathe at the Sangam today,” she said.
Authorities have set up 10 bathing ghats across 10,000 square feet and constructed nine pontoon bridges to manage crowd movement.
Members of the Kinnar Akhada, including spiritual leader Kalyani Nand Giri, were among those who took the first-day dip. “Seeing the crowd, it feels like the Kumbh Mela,” she said, adding that the akhada is observing Kalpavas at the Magh Mela for the first time.
