Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Keshav Prasad Maurya, has declared that ensuring a safe, secure, and meticulously organised Magh Mela is the top priority for the state government. The 44-day religious congregation is scheduled to commence on January 3, 2026, in the holy city of Prayagraj.
Safety and Smooth Conduct Top the Agenda
During his visit to the city on Tuesday, Maurya revealed that specific instructions have been issued to all concerned officials. The primary directive is to guarantee the seamless management of the mela, with an unwavering focus on the safety of the millions of pilgrims expected to take a sacred dip at the Sangam—the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythological Saraswati rivers. The administration is also tasked with ensuring their safe return journey.
He stressed that special attention must be paid to the Kalpavasis—devotees observing a month-long religious vow—and the revered saints, who should face no difficulties. Furthermore, traditional participating organisations and those arriving with a spirit of service (seva) are to be accommodated without any inconvenience.
Budget Tripled Under BJP Leadership
In a pointed comparison, the Deputy Chief Minister highlighted the financial commitment of the current government. He stated that during the tenure of the previous Samajwadi Party (SP) government, the budget for the world-famous Magh Mela was slashed to a mere ₹30 crore. In contrast, under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the budget has been significantly increased to more than ₹90 crore to facilitate the successful and grand conduct of the event.
Maurya drew inspiration from the historical success of the Maha Kumbh-2025, noting that since the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) came to power, there has been a consistent effort to organise the Magh Mela on the lines of a mini-Kumbh. The government is now striving to impart a similar grand form to the Magh Mela-2026.
Focus on Cleanliness and Infrastructure
Emphasising holistic management, Maurya outlined several infrastructural and environmental measures. He confirmed that the continuous and clean flow of the Ganga has been maintained in Prayagraj. Additionally, discussions are underway with officials to construct electric crematoriums along key points from Prayagraj to Shringverpur, Puramufti, and Arail.
The overall focus for the upcoming mela will rest on three pillars: cleanliness, security, and good conduct. Recalling a powerful gesture, Maurya mentioned that during the 2019 Ardh Kumbh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi washed the feet of sanitation workers. This act, he said, was to express gratitude and underscore the message that a clean mela is impossible without the invaluable contribution of these workers.
The state machinery is now mobilising to translate these directives into reality, aiming to set a new benchmark for the organisation of the age-old Magh Mela in Prayagraj.
