In India, rivers are considered not only as sources of water but also as givers of life and salvation, among which Ganga has the foremost place. The month of Magh is considered very sacred in Hindu religion and the Magh Mela organized in Prayagraj is a Mahakumbh of devotion. Although there are many sacred rivers in India, but bathing in Ganga during Magh Mela is of utmost importance because according to religious beliefs, the water of Ganga becomes like nectar at this time. According to astrological calculations, when the Sun enters Capricorn, the gods reside on the holy banks of the Ganga. Through Magh Snan, man wishes for freedom and salvation from the sins of his previous births. In such Astrologer Radhakant Vats of Vrindavan Let us know why during Magh Mela, virtue is attained only by bathing in Ganga?

Religious significance of drops of nectar

According to mythology, when the nectar pot came out during the churning of the ocean, during the battle between gods and demons, some drops of nectar fell in Prayagraj, where the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati occurs.

The waters of the Ganga become spiritually energized during the Magh Mela, especially on Makar Sankranti, Mauni Amavasya and Basant Panchami. It is believed that the virtue gained by taking a bath in the Ganga in the month of Magh is a thousand times more as compared to other times. It is said in the scriptures that in the month of Magh, all the pilgrims and gods themselves come to Prayag to bathe in the Ganga.

Ganga, the giver of salvation and the destroyer of sins

Ganga is considered to be the river originating from the feet of Lord Vishnu and residing in the locks of hair of Shiva. In comparison to other rivers, Ganga has been called Patit Pavani which means the one who rescues the fallen.

When a devotee takes a dip in the waves of Ganga in the cold month of Magh, it is a symbol of his penance. It is the process of purifying one’s soul by enduring physical suffering. It is believed that taking a bath in Magh not only removes the troubles of present life but also opens the way to heaven.

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astrological and astronomical reasons

According to astrology, the Sun and Moon have a special position in the month of Magha. When the Sun is in Capricorn and the Moon moves towards fullness, a special type of magnetic power is transmitted in the water element.

The water of Ganga, which comes mixed with Himalayan herbs, is filled with special medicinal properties at this time. Bathing in Ganga not only provides spiritual benefits but it is also considered helpful in curing skin related diseases and increasing immunity.

Kalpavas and tradition of renunciation

There is a tradition of ‘Kalpvas’ on the banks of Ganga in Magh Mela, where people live a virtuous life for a month. Compared to other rivers, the sandy banks of Ganga and its environment are considered most suitable for meditation and spiritual practice.

It is mentioned in ‘Padma Purana’ that the result of taking bath in Magh at the Sangam is greater than the result of charity, penance and difficult yagyas. This is the reason why crores of devotees come here even after enduring hardships just to take a bath in the Ganga.