Prayagraj (UP), Feb 15: In a spectacular display of faith, over 21 lakh devotees had taken a sacred holy dip in the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati at the Sangam by 10 am on Mahashivratri, marking the grand finale of the ongoing Magh Mela, a mela authority official announced on Sunday.
The Magh Mela, one of India’s most revered religious gatherings held annually in the lunar month of Magh, draws millions seeking spiritual purification through ritual baths. This year’s edition culminates on Mahashivratri, the auspicious night dedicated to Lord Shiva, with pilgrims arriving in droves since late Saturday night amid chants of hymns and the rhythmic beats of traditional drums.
Mela authority officials confirmed the impressive early morning turnout, attributing it to the heightened fervor of the occasion. Devotees from across Uttar Pradesh, neighboring states, and even distant parts of the country have converged on Prayagraj’s sprawling fairgrounds, braving the crisp winter chill to immerse themselves in the holy waters believed to wash away sins and grant moksha.
District Magistrate Manish Kumar Verma emphasized the comprehensive security and logistical arrangements in place to ensure a seamless experience. “Adequate security has been deployed at all ghats,” he stated, highlighting the presence of State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams, skilled boatmen, and expert divers on standby for any emergencies.
To facilitate the massive crowds, sufficient changing rooms have been set up across the bathing ghats, allowing pilgrims—many clad in traditional attire—to comfortably prepare for their dips. The entire fair area is under constant vigilance through an extensive network of CCTV cameras and high-tech drones, providing real-time monitoring and swift response capabilities. These measures underscore the administration’s commitment to pilgrim safety during one of the world’s largest religious congregations.
As the day progresses, officials anticipate even higher numbers, with temporary camps, medical facilities, and sanitation drives in full swing to support the influx.
