First Magh Mela after Mahakumbh sees over 25 lakh devotees in UP
The first Magh Mela after the Prayagraj Mahakumbh has begun on a grand note, with over 25 lakh devotees taking a holy dip at the Sangam on the occasion of Paush Purnima. The Magh Mela, which is one of the most significant Hindu pilgrimages, is expected to see a massive turnout of devotees from all over the country. The authorities have estimated that the footfall may reach 30 lakh, making it one of the largest gatherings of devotees in recent times.
The Magh Mela is a month-long fair that takes place every year on the banks of the Ganges River in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. It is a significant event in the Hindu calendar, where devotees gather to take a holy dip in the river, which is believed to wash away their sins. The fair also features various cultural and spiritual events, including discourses by saints and sadhus, music and dance performances, and exhibitions of traditional crafts and artifacts.
This year’s Magh Mela is particularly significant, as it is the first one to take place after the Prayagraj Mahakumbh, which was held in 2021. The Mahakumbh is a massive pilgrimage that takes place every 12 years, and it attracts millions of devotees from all over the world. The Magh Mela, on the other hand, is a smaller but still significant event that takes place every year.
The authorities have made elaborate arrangements to ensure the smooth and safe conduct of the Magh Mela. Over 10,000 police personnel have been deployed to maintain law and order, and CCTV cameras have been installed at strategic locations to monitor the crowd. The Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and National Investigation Agency (NIA) commandos are also present to provide an additional layer of security.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is personally monitoring the arrangements for the Magh Mela, and he has instructed the authorities to ensure that all necessary facilities are provided to the devotees. The state government has also made arrangements for the provision of food, water, and shelter to the devotees, and medical facilities are also available in case of any emergencies.
The devotees who have gathered at the Magh Mela are from all over the country, and they include sadhus and saints, as well as ordinary people who have come to take a holy dip in the river. Many of the devotees have been camping at the fair grounds for several days, and they are engaged in various spiritual activities, including meditation, yoga, and discourses by saints and sadhus.
The Magh Mela is not only a significant spiritual event, but it is also an important cultural and economic event. The fair features various stalls selling traditional crafts and artifacts, as well as food and drink stalls. The event also provides a significant boost to the local economy, as thousands of people are employed in various capacities, including as vendors, security personnel, and volunteers.
In conclusion, the first Magh Mela after the Prayagraj Mahakumbh has begun on a grand note, with over 25 lakh devotees taking a holy dip at the Sangam on the occasion of Paush Purnima. The authorities have made elaborate arrangements to ensure the smooth and safe conduct of the event, and the state government is personally monitoring the arrangements. The Magh Mela is a significant spiritual, cultural, and economic event that attracts millions of devotees from all over the country, and it is an important part of India’s rich cultural heritage.