First Magh Mela after Mahakumbh sees over 25 lakh devotees in UP
The first Magh Mela after the Prayagraj Mahakumbh has commenced with a massive turnout of devotees, as over 25 lakh people gathered at the Sangam in Uttar Pradesh to take a holy dip on Paush Purnima. The festival, which is one of the most significant in the Hindu calendar, has drawn a huge crowd of devotees from all over the country, with authorities estimating that the footfall may reach as high as 30 lakh.
The Magh Mela, which is held annually at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers in Prayagraj, has a special significance this year, as it is the first one to be held after the Mahakumbh, which took place in 2021. The Mahakumbh, which is held every 12 years, is one of the largest human gatherings in the world, and the Magh Mela is an important precursor to it.
The devotees who gathered at the Sangam on Paush Purnima were undeterred by the cold winter weather, and they braved the chilly waters of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers to take a dip, which is considered to be a sacred ritual. The dip is believed to wash away the sins of the devotees and bring them closer to spiritual enlightenment.
To ensure the safety and security of the devotees, the authorities have made elaborate arrangements, including the deployment of over 10,000 police personnel, as well as CCTV cameras, ATS, and NIA commandos. The Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath, is personally monitoring the arrangements to ensure that the festival passes off smoothly and without any incidents.
The Magh Mela is not just a religious festival, but also an important cultural event, which showcases the rich heritage and traditions of India. The festival is marked by a series of rituals and ceremonies, including the recitation of Vedic hymns, the performance of classical music and dance, and the display of traditional crafts and artifacts.
The festival also provides a platform for social and economic exchange, as devotees from all over the country come together to share their experiences, traditions, and cultures. The Magh Mela is also an important economic event, as it generates significant revenue for the local economy, through the sale of food, drinks, and other items.
The authorities have also made arrangements for the accommodation and food of the devotees, with thousands of tents and makeshift shelters being set up to provide them with a place to stay. The devotees are also being provided with free food and water, as well as medical facilities, to ensure their comfort and well-being.
The Magh Mela is a significant event in the Hindu calendar, and it is considered to be an important part of India’s cultural heritage. The festival is a testament to the country’s rich cultural diversity and its ability to bring people together, despite their differences.
In conclusion, the first Magh Mela after the Prayagraj Mahakumbh has begun with a massive turnout of devotees, and the authorities are making all efforts to ensure that the festival passes off smoothly and without any incidents. The Magh Mela is an important cultural and religious event, which showcases the rich heritage and traditions of India, and it is an important part of the country’s cultural calendar.
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