People take a holy dip at the Sangam on the occasion of 'Paush Purnima', marking the start of the 'Magh Mela' festival, on a cold winter morning, in Prayagraj, Saturday, January 3. PTI
Photos: Lakhs of devotees take holy dip in Sangam as Magh Mela begins in Prayagraj
According to the Magh Mela authorities, around 9 lakh devotees had taken the holy dip till 10 am
Lakhs of devotees from different walks of life, including the elderly and children, took a dip in the icy cold waters of the Sangam on 'Paush Purnima' as the Magh Mela began in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, on Saturday (January 3).
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The month-long 'Kalpavas', which is believed to absolve people of their sins, also began with 'Paush Purnima'. During 'Kalpavas', devotees bathe twice in the Ganga every day and eat one meal a day, spending the rest of their time meditating and worshipping their chosen deity. According to the Magh Mela authorities, around 9 lakh devotees had taken the holy dip till 10 am.
Here are some of the images from Magh Mela in Prayagraj. Photos: PTI
Priests perform 'Ganga Aarti' on the eve of 'Paush Purnima', the first day of 'Magh Mela' festival, at Dashashwamedh Ghat, in Prayagraj, Friday, January 2. PTI