Over three million devotees took a holy dip at the Sangam on the occasion of Maghi Purnima at the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati rivers on Saturday.

Mela officer Vijay Kiran Anand said that more than three million devotees took a dip in the Ganga river by 4 pm, a further increase in numbers is expected by late evening.

Officials said devotees started thronging the ghats as early as 4 am despite chilly winter conditions. As the day progressed, sunshine encouraged more devotees to take dips and perform rituals on the banks of the Ganga. The footfall of devotees was recorded at around 2 million at 1 pm and increased to 3 million by 4 pm.

Moderate rush was witnessed at Sangam Ghat from early hours and devotees from all over the country flocked the Mela campus to take holy dip and perform rituals. Elaborate security arrangements have also been made for the smooth holy snan.

The significance of Maghi Purnima in Hindu mythology is paramount, as it is believed that Lord Vishnu himself resides at Sangam on this auspicious day. Astrologically, this event is even more extraordinary as the alignment of Magha Nakshatra happened after 120 years, magnifying the spiritual rewards of holy dip and donations at Sangam manifold.

The Maghi Purnima bathing also marks the conclusion of the month-long Kalpvas, during which devotees engage in worship, aarti, and charitable acts. Starting today, devotees, especially the Kalpvasis who dwell along the banks of the Ganga for most of the month, bid farewell to the fairgrounds after fulfilling their religious duties.

The Magh Mela stands as one of the most significant religious gatherings in India, offering devotees an opportunity to seek spiritual purification and absolution of sins through the sacred act of bathing in the Sangam.

UP Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh has commended the government’s efforts to ensure pilgrims’ safety and convenience during the Magh Mela. Special provisions were made for a hassle-free dip at Sangam and other essential amenities.

This success serves as a prelude to the Maha Kumbh in 2025, showcasing the government’s dedication to enhancing religious experiences for all participants.