Prayagraj: The historic Magh Mela in Prayagraj began on Saturday with a grand display of devotion, colors, and cultural vibrancy as lakhs of pilgrims converged at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswatito take a holy dip on Paush Purnima. The mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in India, brought together sadhus, kalpvasis, and devotees from across the country, braving the winter chill to participate in age-old rituals.

A Vibrant Scene at the Sangam

From the break of dawn, the ghats of the Sangam were filled with pilgrims chanting hymns, carrying small bundles of belongings, and moving in disciplined groups along temporary pathways laid across the sandy riverbanks. Rows of tents, fluttering saffron flags, devotional music from loudspeakers, and vendors selling religious items added to the festive atmosphere.

Sadhus wrapped in blankets and kalpvasis settling into makeshift camps contributed to the spiritual and cultural vibrancy of the gathering. Volunteers and police personnel managed crowd movement across pontoon bridges and ghats, ensuring safety and smooth flow of devotees.

“Taking a dip at the Sangam on Paush Purnima gives peace to the soul. We have come from Jhansi after travelling all night,” said 62-year-old Ram Prasad. Sunita Devi, who arrived with her family from Bihar, added, “Despite the cold, the arrangements are good. This bath feels like washing away all troubles.” Mahesh Yadav from Ayodhya described the atmosphere as “charged with devotion and discipline.”

Government Preparations and Safety Measures

Ahead of the mela, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath reviewed security and administrative arrangements through a video conference with senior officials from Prayagraj and other pilgrimage centres. The chief minister emphasised that devotee safety, convenience, and smooth conduct were the state government’s top priorities. He warned that no negligence would be tolerated at any level.

Officials were directed to ensure:

• Cleanliness at ghats and temple premises
• Uninterrupted power supply
• Efficient crowd management
• Control rooms and women’s changing rooms
• Smooth entry and exit arrangements

With an expected 15 to 25 lakh devotees on the first day alone, the chief minister instructed authorities to strengthen health services, including hospitals, medical staff, ambulances, and sanitation facilities. He also called for the deployment of divers at ghats to handle any emergencies and stressed women’s safety, instructing strict action against suspicious or unruly elements.

Barricading was to be ensured at areas with strong currents, and officials were told to prevent overcharging by boatmen and hotels, ensuring fair and safe facilities for all pilgrims.

Spiritual Significance and Pilgrimage

The Magh Mela, continuing until February 15, is a major religious event that draws devotees seeking spiritual purification through ritual bathing at the Sangam. The holy dip is believed to cleanse sins, bring inner peace, and fulfill wishes. Pilgrims, many traveling long distances overnight, participated with deep faith and devotion despite freezing temperatures.

The mela also features religious discourses, devotional singing, and interaction with sadhus and spiritual leaders, adding layers of spiritual and cultural learning to the pilgrimage experience.

As the festival continues over the coming weeks, authorities are focused on ensuring that the largest religious congregation in India proceeds without incident, blending devotion with safety, order, and logistical efficiency.

The Magh Mela 2026 stands as a testament to centuries-old Indian traditions, where faith, discipline, and cultural celebration converge at the sacred confluence of rivers, attracting millions of devotees from across the nation and beyond.