In Pictures: Ceremonies for the Magh Mela in Prayagraj

Magh Mela is back in Prayagraj, drawing crores of devotees to the Triveni Sangam — the confluence of the Ganga, the Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati. At the annual 45-day pilgrimage held during the lunar month of Magha, pilgrims take a faithful dip in the cold waters of the Sangam. They believe that this act of devotion offers a chance at salvation and helps break the cycle of life and death.

The Mela, which began on Paush Purnima (January 3, 2026), will continue until February 15. During this period, major festivals such as Makar Sankranti, Mauni Amavasya, Basant Panchami, and Maghi Purnima are observed, culminating with Mahasivaratri. Each auspicious day attracts massive crowds to the Sangam for the sacred bath.

Temporary tent colonies have been set up along the banks to accommodate pilgrims. Despite temperatures often dropping to single digits at night, devotees continue to take ritualistic dips in the waters.

The Mela is also a bustling hub of activity and livelihood. Stalls selling food, religious offerings, and puja ingredients line the banks, catering to the endless stream of devotees.

Tight security arrangements are in place to ensure law and order. An integrated command centre monitors CCTV footage from across the Sangam, while personnel from the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terror Squad (ATS) patrol the area. Lifeguards on boats maintain safety in the waters.

Authorities expect a massive turnout this year, projecting 15-20 crore visitors by the end of the festival season.

Photo:
Shashi Shekhar Kashyap

Sacred spot: Devotees take a dip at the Triveni Sangam

Photo:
Shashi Shekhar Kashyap

Seeking salvation: Women offering prayers at the Magh Mela.

Photo:
Shashi Shekhar Kashyap

Sheltering devotees: Tents set up for pilgrims visiting the ongoing Magh mela 2026, in Prayagaraj

Photo:
PTI

Chanelling the faithful: Devotees atop a pontoon bridge at the mela on their way to take the holy dip ahead of the Mauni Amavasya festival.

Photo:
Shashi Shekhar Kashyap

On duty: Members of Uttar Pradesh’s anti-terror squad keep an eye on the ongoing festivities at the Sangam.

Photo:
Shashi Shekhar Kashyap

Inclusive faith: A kinnar saint at the religious gathering blesses a child.

Photo:
ANI

High vigil: Police and Railway personnel monitor crowds round the clock at the Integrated Command and Control Centre.

Photo:
Shashi Shekhar Kashyap

Religious rites: Two Hindu saints, immersed in prayer, perform evening rituals as dusk settles in.

Photo:
PTI

A big draw: An aerial view of the swarm of pilgrims gathered at the Triveni Sangam.

Photo:
PTI

Ceremonial tribute: Priests perform Ganga aarti at the Dashashwamedh Ghat ahead of Mauni Amavasya during the Magh Mela.