Prayagraj Magh Mela Begins, Devotees Bathe in Freezing Sangam
‘Paush Purnima’ marks the start of month long Kalpavas authorities expect up to 30 lakh devotees for ritual bathing
Prayagraj, Jan 3: The Magh Mela 2026 began on Saturday with lakhs of devotees braving the icy waters of the Sangam on Paush Purnima. Among the pilgrims were children and elderly participants, all taking part in the ritual bath believed to cleanse sins and purify the soul.
The month long Kalpavas also commenced on Paush Purnima. During this period, devotees bathe twice daily in the Ganga, eat a single meal a day, and devote their time to meditation and worship. According to Magh Mela authorities, around 9 lakh devotees had taken the holy dip by 10 am, with numbers expected to rise as the day progressed.
Acharya Rajendra Mishra, president of the Triveni Sangam Aarti Seva Samiti, said that approximately 5 lakh devotees began their Kalpavas rituals on Saturday. Prayag Dham Sangh president Rajendra Paliwal added that up to 20 lakh devotees, including Kalpavasis, are expected to bathe by evening.
Prayagraj Divisional Commissioner Soumya Agarwal estimated that 20-30 lakh pilgrims will take part in the sacred bathing ritual on Paush Purnima. To accommodate devotees, the Mela authorities have set up ten bathing ghats across 10,000 sq ft and constructed nine pontoon bridges.
For the first time, a dedicated township named Prayagwal has been established for Kalpavasis over 950 bighas, located opposite the Nagvasuki Temple. The township will host pilgrims throughout the month-long festivities.
Other major bathing occasions during Magh Mela 2026 include Makar Sankranti (Jan 14), Mauni Amavasya (Jan 18), Basant Panchami (Jan 23), Maghi Purnima (Feb 1), and Mahashivratri (Feb 15).
Pilgrims such as Pooja Jha from Kolkata and Shivani Mishra from Madhya Pradesh expressed that the lighter crowd on the first day allowed for a more peaceful and comfortable bathing experience.
