Preparations for Magh Mela 2026 in Prayagraj are in full swing as authorities focus on two major bathing festivals, Makar Sankranti and Mauni Amavasya. With a rare astrological alignment after 75 years, the event is being termed Mahamagh Mela.
Historic Magh Mela 2026 Begins as Rare Astrological Alignment Forms
New Delhi: In the Sanatan tradition, the month of Magh is considered extremely virtuous. The Magh Mela held in Prayagraj is a grand festival of devotion, penance, charity, and holy bathing. The 2026 Magh Mela is special because a rare astrological coincidence is occurring after nearly 75 years. This is why this year it is being called not just an ordinary Magh Mela, but the "Mahamagh Mela." The scriptures state that bathing at the Sangam during the month of Magh leads to salvation. This fair will begin on January 3 and continue until Mahashivratri on February 15.
This year, two major grand baths are falling during the Magh Mela. The first grand bath will be on Makar Sankranti on January 15, while the second and largest bath will be on Mauni Amavasya on January 18. Millions of devotees from India and abroad are expected to arrive in Prayagraj on both these dates. Keeping this in mind, the administration has begun preparations to further strengthen the arrangements.
In view of the massive influx of devotees, the bathing ghats in the Sangam area are being expanded. While approximately 7,000 feet of ghats were constructed for Paush Purnima, they are now being expanded to approximately 9,000 feet for Makar Sankranti and Mauni Amavasya. This will allow a larger number of devotees to bathe safely and conveniently.
The Sangam Nose area is also being expanded to ensure that the crowd pressure does not fall on one spot. Under the supervision of the fair administration, desilting work is being carried out to remove silt from the ghats. Regular cleaning is being carried out using Poclain and JCB machines to ensure that the ghats remain level and safe.
Barricading, lighting, drinking water, toilets, and medical facilities are also being strengthened in the fair area for the convenience of devotees. The administration's goal is to ensure that there is no chaos during the Mahasnan and that devotees can take the holy bath peacefully.
The Maha Magh Mela 2026 is not only a symbol of religious faith, but also a vibrant glimpse of Indian culture and tradition. With the cooperation of the administration and devotees, this event is poised to become historic and memorable.
