Despite inclement weather, around 25.5 lakh devotees, including women, children, and the elderly, thronged to the auspicious Magh Mela area early Wednesday morning to take a dip in the Ganga and at the holy Sangam on the occasion of Basant Panchami.
According to officials, the fourth bathing festival of Magh Mela witnessed a significant turnout of devotees, with people braving the rain, cloudy sky, and cold weather to participate in the sacred ritual.
An official from the Magh Mela administration revealed that by noon, approximately 25.5 lakh individuals had immersed themselves in the holy waters to mark the auspicious day.
This year, the administration extended the length of the ghats from 6,800 feet to 8,000 feet to accommodate the large influx of pilgrims.
Additionally, 12 well-equipped ghats were constructed to facilitate the bathing process.
Deputy Inspector General of Police (Magh Mela), Rajiv Narayan Mishra, assured the public of elaborate security measures in the mela area.
With the deployment of 300 CCTV cameras and AI-based surveillance systems, authorities are closely monitoring the premises. Any suspicious activity is promptly addressed to ensure the safety of devotees.
In addition to the religious ceremonies, large-scale bhandaras are being organised in the camps of saints and sages within the Magh Mela area, adding to the festive atmosphere of the occasion.