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 Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, to take a holy dip on the occasion of Paush Purnima. The festival, which marks the beginning of the Magh month in the Hindu calendar, is expected to attract a large number of devotees from all over the country. According to estimates by the authorities, the footfall may reach as high as 30 lakh, making it one of the largest gatherings of its kind in the country.
The Magh Mela, which is a smaller version of the Kumbh Mela, is held annually in Prayagraj, and this year’s event is particularly significant as it is the first one to be held after the Mahakumbh, which was held 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 event in the Hindu calendar.
The devotees, who have come from all over the country, began gathering at the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers, from early morning on Paush Purnima. The atmosphere was filled with devotion and spirituality, as the devotees took a holy dip in the rivers, which is believed to wash away their sins. The devotees also offered prayers and performed various rituals, such as chanting and meditation, to seek the blessings of the Almighty.
To ensure the safety and security of the devotees, the authorities have made elaborate arrangements. Over 10,000 police personnel have been deployed in the area, along with CCTV cameras and commandos from the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and the National Investigation Agency (NIA). The Uttar Pradesh government has also set up a control room to monitor the arrangements and respond to any emergencies that may arise.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has been personally monitoring the arrangements, and has directed the officials to ensure that the devotees face no inconvenience. The government has also made arrangements for the devotees to stay, including setting up temporary shelters and providing food and water.
The Magh Mela is not only an important event for the devotees but also a significant cultural and economic event for the state. The festival is expected to generate a significant amount of revenue for the local economy, with thousands of vendors and traders setting up stalls to sell their wares. The festival is also an opportunity for the local artisans and craftsmen to showcase their skills and sell their products.
The Magh Mela is also an important event for the environment, as it highlights the importance of conservation and protection of the rivers. The devotees are encouraged to take a pledge to protect the rivers and the environment, and to promote sustainability and eco-friendliness.
In conclusion, the first Magh Mela after the Prayagraj Mahakumbh has begun with a massive turnout of devotees, with over 25 lakh people taking a holy dip at the Sangam. The authorities have made elaborate arrangements to ensure the safety and security of the devotees, and the festival is expected to generate a significant amount of revenue for the local economy. The Magh Mela is an important event in the Hindu calendar, and it highlights the significance of spirituality, culture, and conservation.