Magh Mela 2026: Dates and Significance of the Holy Bath Festival
Magh Mela Holy Bath Date
Magh Mela Holy Bath Date: Today, January 3, 2026, marks the full moon of the Paush month, signaling the start of the Magh month. Consequently, the Magh Mela is commencing at the Sangam banks in Prayagraj. This annual event attracts devotees from across India and beyond, who come to perform Kalpavas, a month-long spiritual observance. The Magh Mela, celebrated at the Sangam, is of great importance and lasts for an entire month. It symbolizes the unwavering faith of millions and is a grand celebration of penance, spiritual practice, self-discipline, and awakening. It is believed that bathing in the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the unseen Saraswati rivers cleanses sins and leads to salvation. Thus, from Makar Sankranti until the end of the Magh month, countless devotees flock to the Sangam for bathing, worship, and spiritual activities.
According to the Puranas, the Sangam area is revered as a divine land and a sacred site, with Akshayavat, Saraswati Koop, and the Triveni region recognized as places of penance since ancient times. Historians assert that this fair has been celebrated continuously for thousands of years, with its grandeur increasing significantly over time. Let’s explore when the Magh Mela will commence in 2026, its duration, and the dates for the main holy baths.
When will the Magh Mela begin?
In accordance with the Hindu calendar, the Magh Mela starts on Paush Purnima and concludes on Mahashivratri. In 2026, this festival will kick off on January 3rd and run until February 15th. During this period, six major holy baths are scheduled, with the bath on Mauni Amavasya being the most significant and auspicious.
January 3, 2026 - Paush Purnima
The fair will commence with the holy bath on Paush Purnima. Kalpavas also begins on this day, when devotees immerse themselves in the Sangam and embark on their month-long spiritual journey.
January 14, 2026 - Makar Sankranti
On Makar Sankranti, the sun transitions from Sagittarius to Capricorn. This day is deemed highly auspicious for bathing, marking the second major royal bath. Millions of devotees take a holy dip to gain merit.
January 18, 2026 - Mauni Amavasya
Mauni Amavasya is the most significant and sacred bathing festival of the Magh Mela. Observing silence, engaging in charitable acts, and bathing in the Sangam are particularly fruitful on this day. This date will be recognized as the third major bathing day.
January 23, 2026 - Vasant Panchami
Vasant Panchami, which heralds the arrival of spring, is the fourth major bathing day. Saraswati Puja is conducted on this day, making it especially auspicious for students.
February 1, 2026 - Maghi Purnima
This day holds great significance for those observing Kalpavas. Bathing in the Sangam and performing charitable deeds on Maghi Purnima are considered highly auspicious. This will be the fifth major bathing day of the fair.
February 15, 2026 - Maha Shivaratri
The Magh Mela concludes with the final bath on the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivaratri. Bathing in the Sangam on this day, along with worshiping Shiva, fasting, and meditation, carries special religious significance.
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