First Magh Mela after Mahakumbh sees over 25 lakh devotees in UP
The first Magh Mela after the Prayagraj Mahakumbh has begun, and it has already witnessed an overwhelming response from devotees. On the occasion of Paush Purnima, over 25 lakh devotees gathered at the Sangam in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, to take a holy dip in the sacred waters. The authorities are estimating that the footfall may reach 30 lakh, making it one of the largest gatherings of devotees in recent times.
The Magh Mela, which is a significant event in the Hindu calendar, is being held after a gap of two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The event has been organized on a grand scale, with the state government and local authorities making elaborate arrangements to ensure the safety and comfort of the devotees. The mela area has been divided into several sectors, with separate enclosures for men and women, as well as facilities for food, shelter, and medical care.
The security arrangements at the mela are also quite robust, with over 10,000 police personnel, including commandos from the Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) and the National Investigation Agency (NIA), deployed in the area. The entire mela area is under the surveillance of CCTV cameras, and the authorities are keeping a close watch on the proceedings to prevent any untoward incidents.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is personally monitoring the arrangements at the mela, and he has instructed the authorities to ensure that the devotees face no inconvenience during their stay. The state government has also made arrangements for the devotees to take a holy dip in the Ganga River, with several ghats being constructed for the purpose.
The Magh Mela is an important event in the Hindu calendar, and it is considered to be a significant occasion for spiritual rejuvenation and self-reflection. The event is expected to continue for several weeks, with devotees from all over the country and abroad expected to participate in the festivities.
The mela area is a vibrant and colorful place, with several stalls and shops selling a variety of items, including food, clothing, and souvenirs. The atmosphere is festive, with devotees and pilgrims from all walks of life coming together to celebrate the occasion. The sound of bhajans and kirtans fills the air, and the smell of incense and flowers wafts through the crowds.
The Magh Mela is also an important event for the local economy, with several thousand people employed in various capacities, including as vendors, priests, and security personnel. The event is expected to generate significant revenue for the state government, with several crores of rupees being spent on arrangements and infrastructure.
The success of the Magh Mela is a testament to the enduring power of faith and spirituality in India. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the event has witnessed an overwhelming response from devotees, with several lakh people gathering at the Sangam to take a holy dip. The event is a reminder of the importance of spirituality and self-reflection in our lives, and it is an occasion for us to come together and celebrate our shared humanity.
In conclusion, the first Magh Mela after the Prayagraj Mahakumbh has begun on a grand note, with over 25 lakh devotees gathering at the Sangam to take a holy dip. The authorities have made elaborate arrangements to ensure the safety and comfort of the devotees, and the event is expected to continue for several weeks. The Magh Mela is an important event in the Hindu calendar, and it is a significant occasion for spiritual rejuvenation and self-reflection.