According to the Hindu tradition, today is the most significant day to take the holy dip or in the holy river Ganges. At this Kumbh Mela in Pryagraj, more than 3 Crore pilgrims are expected to join “Kumbh Snan” or “Shahi Snan” on this Mauni Amavasya, which is a new moon day in the Hindu calendar of Magha month. And it assumes greater significance if it falls on a Monday, which is this year. It is believed that on this day, sage Rishabh Dev broke his vow of silence and bathed in the holy waters.
Today in Pryagraj, from the railway station to the makeshift township of Kumbh Nagari, there is the continuous movement of devotees as the loudspeaker guides them towards the ghats.
Security has been tightened at Kumbh Nagari for the Mauni Amavasya. The entire area has been divided into 10 zones and 25 sectors, which are being monitored by an Additional Superintendent of Police level officer. Nearly 40 police stations and as many fire stations have been set up in the Kumbh Nagari to deal with any emergency.
The Kumbh witnesses a total of three “Shahi Snan” in the first of which took place on Makar Sankranti on January 15, when the Mela started. The second is on Mauni Amavasya and the last one is on February 10, that is, Basant Panchami. The Kumbh Mela comes to a close on March 4.
