On the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti, the Shahi Snan at the Maha Kumbh Mela saw approximately 1.60 crore devotees taking the holy dip in the sacred waters, and the count is still increasing.
This snan and day, which marks the transition of the sun into Capricorn, is considered highly auspicious in Hindu tradition as it signifies the arrival of the harvest season. Devotees believe that bathing in the river during this time cleanses them of sins and brings spiritual purification for a lifetime.
The Maha Kumbh, held once every 12 years, is witnessing an extremely rare alignment this time, which has not occurred in 144 years, attracting millions of pilgrims from across the world to the banks of the Ganges, making it one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.
On this day, after taking the holy dip, people donate especially til (sesame seeds) & gud (jaggery), clothes, money, and grains like rice. The belief is that these acts of charity make their ancestors happy, along with pleasing God.
Pic Credit: Narendra Modi / Twitter
