Faith Beyond Numbers: From the Sangam in Prayagraj to the shores of Gangasagar, Makar Sankranti and Magh Mela 2026 reflects Peace and Harmony.

A Grand Confluence of Faith, Devotion, and Administrative Preparedness

Upananda Brahmachari and Upendra Bharti | HENB | Prayagraj/Gangasagar | Jan 15, 2026:: A massive wave of devotion swept across India as millions of pilgrims thronged the sacred ghats of Prayagraj’s Sangam and Gangasagar in West Bengal on the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti, coinciding with the ongoing Magh Mela. Despite harsh winter conditions and dense fog, devotees from across the country—and abroad—gathered in unprecedented numbers to take the holy dip, reaffirming India’s enduring spiritual traditions.

Devotion Peaks at Sangam Ghat, Prayagraj

From late Tuesday night itself, streams of devotees began arriving at the Sangam Ghat, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati. Braving biting cold and low visibility due to dense fog, thousands took the ritual bath at dawn, believing it to cleanse sins and usher in spiritual merit.

Magh Mela Officer Rishi Raj confirmed that the flow of pilgrims remained steady throughout the day. “Despite foggy conditions, all administrative teams are stationed at the ghats. Continuous monitoring and emergency preparedness are in place,” he said.

According to SP Magh Mela Neeraj Pandey, nearly 8.5 million devotees took the holy dip at the Sangam by Wednesday. “Crowds have continued to swell since morning. Special security and traffic arrangements have been enforced to ensure the safety of pilgrims,” he added.

Tight Security Amid Dense Fog

The morning fog significantly reduced visibility across Prayagraj, prompting authorities to increase police patrols to prevent devotees from losing their way. Crowd control, traffic regulation, and surveillance around the Sangam and adjoining areas remained a top priority, with officials conducting round-the-clock monitoring.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath personally reviewed the arrangements, directing officials to ensure seamless facilities, safety, and comfort for pilgrims participating in the Magh Mela and Makar Sankranti rituals.

Gangasagar Mela Witnesses Historic Turnout

Simultaneously, the annual Gangasagar Mela in South 24 Parganas, West Bengal, witnessed an overwhelming influx of devotees at the sacred confluence of the River Ganga and the Bay of Bengal. By Wednesday afternoon, an estimated 8.5 million pilgrims had already taken the holy dip, according to State Power Minister Arup Biswas.

Gangasagar holds immense religious significance, with scriptures stating that bathing here on Makar Sankranti—when the Sun enters Capricorn—bestows spiritual merit equivalent to performing one hundred Ashwamedha Yagyas, ultimately leading to moksha.

However, amid the festivities, a tragic incident was reported as a policeman from Assam, deployed for duty, succumbed to a heart attack.

Vigilant Administration and CM Monitoring

At a press conference in Sagardwip, Minister Arup Biswas stated that heavy crowds are expected to continue through Thursday. Accordingly, district officials, police personnel, and various NGOs have been instructed to remain vigilant overnight.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is closely monitoring the fair through a control room at the state secretariat, ensuring smooth coordination among departments.

Auspicious Bathing Window Continues

Authorities confirmed that the auspicious period for Makar Sankranti bathing spans from 1:19 pm on Wednesday to 1:19 pm on Thursday, indicating that devotees will continue arriving at Gangasagar in large numbers.

Pilgrims from several Indian states and overseas—including France, Ukraine, Russia, the United Kingdom, and Nepal—have also participated in the sacred ritual, highlighting the global appeal of India’s spiritual heritage.

Massive Cleanliness Drive at Gangasagar

With pilgrims bathing round-the-clock, special emphasis has been placed on sanitation. The state government has deployed around 30,000 personnel exclusively for beach cleaning and waste management to maintain hygiene and environmental balance during the mega congregation.

Magh Mela in Gangasagar

Following the auspicious observance of Makar Sankranti, the month-long Magh Mela at Gangasagar unfolded as a vibrant rural congregation of local Bengali Hindu devotees and tourists. The fair showcased Bengal’s rich cultural ethos through local cottage products, handicrafts, traditional artefacts, and village delicacies presented in a colorful mela format. After the massive turnout of pilgrims from across the country and even foreign lands during Makar Sankranti, the local community observed the Magh Mela as a true melting pot of Bengal’s multi-faith culture, strengthening people’s unity, social bonding, and communal cohesion.

Faith Beyond Numbers

From the Sangam in Prayagraj to the shores of Gangasagar, Makar Sankranti 2026 has once again showcased India’s unparalleled spiritual vibrancy. The seamless coordination between faith, devotion, and administrative efficiency ensured that millions could safely participate in one of the world’s largest religious congregations—an enduring symbol of unity, belief, and cultural continuity.
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_Inputs from ANI, NDTV, and Ei Samay.