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On the occasion of Makar Sankranti, a massive influx of devotees gathered at the Sangam in Prayagraj for the holy dip during Magh Mela 2026. Despite dense fog and cold weather, over 2.1 million pilgrims had taken a ritual bath by 8 a.m. Authorities expect the number to cross 10 million by evening, with extensive security and traffic arrangements in place.
Magh Mela Sees Unprecedented Devotee Turnout at Sangam
Prayagraj: An extraordinary display of faith was witnessed at the Sangam in Prayagraj on the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti. From early morning, a stream of devotees and Kalpavasis (pilgrims observing a month-long religious vow) thronged the various bathing ghats. According to the मेला administration, approximately 2.1 million devotees took a holy dip in the Ganges and Sangam by 8 AM. With the auspicious time lasting throughout the day, it is estimated that this number could exceed one crore (10 million) by evening.
Dense fog enveloped Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh on Thursday morning. Despite the low visibility, there was no dampening of the devotees' enthusiasm. People continued to arrive at the Sangam ghats amidst the cold and fog, and were seen taking their holy dips with unwavering faith. The administration had made special arrangements for lighting and guidance to ensure that devotees did not face any inconvenience.
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Even on Wednesday, the day before Makar Sankranti, a huge crowd of devotees gathered at the Sangam. According to administrative figures, more than 7.5 million devotees took a dip that day. Considering this massive gathering of sadhus, sanyasis, and Kalpavasis, Divisional Commissioner Soumya Agarwal instructed that necessary modifications be made to the ghats and routes according to the changing water levels of the river.
The administration is fully vigilant regarding security arrangements in the मेला area. A detailed plan has been implemented to prevent any untoward incidents or stampedes. Additional police force, water police, and volunteers have been deployed at the bathing ghats and major routes. The use of wireless sets has been made mandatory to strengthen communication.
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The Mela administration estimates that two to two and a half crore (20 to 25 million) devotees may take a dip in the Sangam this Makar Sankranti. Keeping this in mind, special arrangements have been made at 24 bathing ghats. A high-tech response plan has been implemented for the convenience and safety of the devotees, including a modern traffic control room, CCTV surveillance, and rapid response teams. Partial modifications have also been made to the ghats, taking into account the changes in the river's course.
Overall, the Prayagraj Magh Mela 2026 on the occasion of Makar Sankranti has emerged as a grand example of the balance between faith, organization, and security.
