More than 21 lakh devotees took ritual baths in the Ganga and at the Sangam on Thursday during the ongoing Magh Mela on Makar Sankranti, officials reported. Bathing began at midnight and by 8 am, around 21 lakh pilgrims had completed the sacred dip. Authorities expect the total number of devotees to exceed one crore by evening as the auspicious period for Makar Sankranti continues throughout the day.
Local priest Ravishankar Mishra explained the religious importance of Makar Sankranti, noting it marks the sun’s northward journey, or Uttarayan. He added that the time between sunrise and sunset is considered highly auspicious. Worship of the Sun God and chanting the Gayatri Mantra on this day are believed to bring significant spiritual benefits.
Divisional Commissioner Soumya Agrawal said the Magh Mela covers 800 hectares across seven sectors. More than 25,000 toilets have been installed, and over 3,500 sanitation workers are on duty. A tent city has been created for visitors observing short-term Kalpvas, providing meditation and yoga facilities. Additional arrangements such as bike taxis and golf carts ensure smooth movement of devotees.
Superintendent of Police Neeraj Pandey stated that over 10,000 police personnel have been deployed to maintain safety and manage crowds. To facilitate vehicle parking, 42 temporary lots have been developed, accommodating more than one lakh vehicles. Several ghats have been constructed specifically for Magh Mela 2025-26, equipped with essential amenities including changing rooms for devotees.
Officials emphasized that all necessary measures are in place to provide comfort, hygiene, and security for the massive number of pilgrims attending the festival. Crowd management and emergency response teams have been strategically positioned throughout the fairgrounds. Authorities are monitoring river water levels, ensuring safe access to bathing ghats, and coordinating with volunteers and local organizations for support.
Visitors are following traditional rituals, offering prayers, and performing ablutions in the sacred waters with devotion. Food and medical facilities have been arranged to meet the needs of pilgrims. The fair has become a blend of spirituality and organization, allowing devotees to observe customs in a safe environment.
Magh Mela continues to attract domestic and international tourists, creating a significant cultural and religious spectacle. Officials remain vigilant, ready to address any contingencies, while devotees celebrate Makar Sankranti with reverence and enthusiasm, maintaining age-old traditions alongside modern arrangements.
