14 JAN 2025, New Delhi

As dawn approached on Makar Sankranti, the festival that marks the end of winter and indicates the beginning of warmer days, the banks of the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj became a scene of divine splendor. The first Amrit Snan (holy dip) of Maha Kumbh 2025 commenced on the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti, drawing millions of devotees and saints to the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the Saraswati, who braved the cold for a holy dip. Over 3.5 crore devotees took a dip in the holy Sangam during first Amrit Snan, taking total number of devotees to over 5 crores in first two days. This profound act of faith, symbolizing purification and blessings, reflected the essence of Indian culture and tradition.

Devotees prayed for purity and prosperity while taking the holy dip. Many offered Arghya to the sun, seeking blessings for virtue and salvation, as Makar Sankranti is dedicated to the Sun God. Scientifically, this festival marks the Sun’s transition to the northern hemisphere, signaling longer days and shorter nights. After the holy dip, devotees performed rituals and offered prayers at the ghats, presenting sesame seeds, khichdi, and other sacred items. Devotees also participated in the Ganga Aarti. Upholding tradition, they also engaged in charity, donating sesame seeds and khichdi, deepening the festival’s sanctity.

Sudarshan, a citizen of the United States of America hailing from California, expressed his reverence for the Kumbh festival. He said, “I came six years ago at the Ardh Kumbh and I had a very important experience here. So, I have come back to this Maha Kumbh mela........

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