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 Paush Purnima. The massive turnout has surpassed expectations, and authorities estimate that the footfall may reach 30 lakh by the end of the festival. The Uttar Pradesh government has made elaborate arrangements to ensure a safe and successful event, with heavy security measures in place.
The Magh Mela, which is one of the largest and most significant Hindu festivals, is being held at the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. The festival is considered a sacred occasion, and devotees from all over the country and abroad have gathered to take a dip in the holy waters. The event is expected to continue for over a month, with various cultural and spiritual programs scheduled to take place.
The UP government has deployed over 10,000 police personnel, including ATS and NIA commandos, to ensure the security of the devotees. The entire area has been covered with CCTV cameras, and a robust surveillance system is in place to monitor any suspicious activity. The government has also set up a control room to monitor the situation and respond to any emergencies.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is personally monitoring the arrangements, and has instructed the officials to ensure that the devotees have a safe and comfortable experience. The government has also made arrangements for the accommodation and food of the devotees, with thousands of tents and community kitchens set up in the area.
The Magh Mela has a rich history and cultural significance, and is considered an important event in the Hindu calendar. The festival is believed to have been started by the great sage Agastya, who is said to have taken a dip in the Sangam to purify himself. Over the centuries, the festival has evolved into a major cultural and spiritual event, with millions of devotees participating in it every year.
The UP government has taken several initiatives to promote the Magh Mela and attract more tourists to the state. The government has launched a website and a mobile app to provide information about the festival, and has also set up a helpline to assist devotees. The government has also made arrangements for the transportation of devotees, with special buses and trains running from various parts of the country.
The Magh Mela is not only a significant cultural event but also an important economic driver for the state. The festival generates significant revenue for the local economy, with thousands of vendors and artisans setting up stalls to sell their wares. The government has also set up a special market to promote local handicrafts and products.
In addition to the cultural and economic significance, the Magh Mela is also an important spiritual event. The festival provides an opportunity for devotees to purify themselves and seek spiritual enlightenment. The holy dip in the Sangam is believed to wash away sins and bring good fortune, and devotees believe that participating in the festival can bring them closer to God.
The UP government has taken several measures to ensure the safety and security of the devotees, including the deployment of divers and boats to rescue anyone who may be swept away by the strong currents. The government has also set up medical camps and emergency services to provide assistance to devotees in case of any medical emergencies.
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. The UP government has made elaborate arrangements to ensure a safe and successful event, with heavy security measures in place. The festival is expected to continue for over a month, and is likely to attract millions of devotees from all over the country and abroad.