The sacred month-long kalpvas at Prayagraj's Magh Mela reached its spiritual climax on Sunday with the Maghi Purnima Snan, drawing an emotional farewell from over 4 lakh kalpvasis. Immersed in a divine confluence of chanting bhajans, heartfelt atonement, and deep meditation, these devotees wrapped up their spiritual sojourn with a final dip at the Triveni Sangam. Departing with cherished memories and renewed spiritual energy, the kalpvasis bid adieu to the mela grounds, carrying the profound essence of their journey back to their respective towns.
Spiritual Journey from Paush to Maghi Purnima
Religious scholar Dr. Amitabh Gour highlighted the significance of this period, noting that the kalpvas commenced on the sandy land of Triveni with the Paush Purnima snan on January 3 and culminated with the holy dip on Maghi Purnima on February 1. After completing their sacred rituals—which included the holy dip in the Sangam, offering donations, and seeking blessings from Goddess Ganga—the kalpvasis set off, imbued with the spiritual vibrations of the Magh Mela. This annual tradition serves as a cornerstone of Hindu pilgrimage, emphasizing purification and devotion.
Rituals and Offerings During the Final Days
As dawn broke on Maghi Purnima, kalpvasis camping along the banks of the Ganga took their final dip during the auspicious Brahma Muhurta. Guided by Tirtha Purohits, they performed concluding rituals such as havan and donations. While scriptures mention 84 types of donations, offerings were accepted based on each devotee's faith and capacity. Common rituals included donating beds, food, clothing, and money. For those unable to complete their offerings on Maghi Purnima, a final bath in Trijata the next day provided an alternative before departure, ensuring no devotee missed out on spiritual fulfillment.
Administrative Efforts for Safe Departure
The mela police administration implemented a strategic exit route plan to manage the safe and organized departure of the massive crowd. SP (Magh Mela) Neeraj Pandey had previously appealed to devotees regarding the orderly dispersal process. Given the enormous turnout, vehicles were permitted to exit only after the mela grounds began to clear. Tractors and other small vehicles designated for the kalpvasis were stationed in parking areas outside the mela zone, minimizing congestion and ensuring a smooth transition for all participants.
Personal Stories of Devotion and Return
For 85-year-old Vidya Devi from Jaunpur, this year marked her 12th kalpvas. She emphasized that the opportunity to listen to saintly discourses was invaluable and appreciated the mela administration's decision to allocate Kalpvas Nagar near the banks of the Ganga. Similarly, 76-year-old Ramdas from Reewa, who undertook his 18th kalpvas, expressed a profound sense of peace and spiritual fulfillment. He stated, "Leaving the sacred embrace of the Sangam banks, I vow to return once again," reflecting the deep emotional and spiritual connections fostered by this annual pilgrimage.
The conclusion of the Maghi Purnima Snan not only marks the end of a month-long spiritual endeavor but also reinforces the cultural and religious significance of Prayagraj's Magh Mela in India's spiritual landscape. With meticulous planning and heartfelt participation, this event continues to inspire devotion and community among lakhs of devotees each year.
