Prayagraj experienced a profound spiritual surge on Thursday as an estimated 1.03 crore devotees immersed themselves in the sacred waters of the Sangam. This marked the second day of Makar Sankranti, a pivotal bathing occasion during the Magh Mela. Revered seers, saints, and Kalpvasis—ascetics observing a month-long penance—joined countless pilgrims in seeking divine blessings through the holy dip.
Record Numbers Seek Spiritual Merit
The first two days of Makar Sankranti attracted a staggering 1.85 crore devotees, pilgrims, and Kalpvasis to the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati. They all came with a shared purpose: to earn punya, or spiritual merit, through their sacred bath. Devotees began arriving at the Ganga's banks early Thursday morning. Groups of all ages marched steadily toward the holy waters, their faces reflecting deep devotion and a quest for salvation.
Rituals and Offerings Along the Banks
Beyond the holy dip, the faithful engaged in various rituals on the riverbanks. Many performed 'daan,' the act of giving alms, and distributed 'khichdi,' a traditional dish, as offerings to seek spiritual liberation. Kalpvasis, deeply committed to their month-long austerity, specifically thronged the Triveni Sangam. They took their faith-filled dip and celebrated Sankranti by donating khichdi and jaggery to others.
Peaceful Celebrations Under Tight Security
Mela officer Rishiraj reported that by 4 PM, more than 91 lakh people had already taken the holy dip on Makar Sankranti. SP (Magh Mela) Neeraj Pandey confirmed to the press that the snan passed off peacefully without any untoward incidents. He attributed this to strict surveillance maintained throughout the mela campus. Senior police officers actively regulated the crowd at all entry and exit points, as well as at the ghats, ensuring smooth movement and safety for everyone.
Prominent Spiritual Leaders Participate
The event saw participation from various spiritual traditions. Dandi sanyasis and acharya tradition saints bathed at the Ganga ghats, offering prayers to the Sun God during Uttarayan. Naga Sadhus from different akharas also joined the Sankranti dip, each seeking personal salvation. In a significant moment, Jyotipithadhishwar Jagadguru Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati, the head of the Jyotish Peeth, performed elaborate pujas including Ganga Puja, Gau Puja, and Ganesh Puja. He formally launched his "Gau Pratishtha Prerna Yatra" initiative during the ceremonies.
Sunny Weather Boosts Attendance
Clear, sunny weather conditions played a key role in swelling the number of devotees. People traveled from all corners to participate, taking advantage of the pleasant day. The Sanatani Kinnar Akhara, observing kalpvas in Prayagwal Nagar within the Magh Mela area, set out for the Ganga ghat with great enthusiasm in the morning. Their disciples performed the Tandav dance along the way, creating a devotional and ethereal atmosphere that captivated onlookers.
A Call for Unity and Resolve
Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Kaushalya Nand Giri, also known as Tina Maa, made an impassioned appeal to the devotees. She highlighted the persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh and urged unity among followers of Sanatan Dharma. Her speech backed Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's recent call for solidarity. "It's time to turn this into a firm resolve," she declared, emphasizing the need for collective strength and determination.
Lost and Found Camps Reunite Families
Amid the vast crowds, the lost and found camps operated efficiently. Over the two days of Makar Sankranti, these camps successfully reunited 181 people with their families. The group included 110 men, 63 women, and 8 children, bringing immense relief to many amidst the spiritual festivities.
