HARIDWAR – Amid biting cold waves sweeping northern India, thousands of devotees gathered at Har Ki Pauri on Thursday for the sacred Ganga Snan during Makar Sankranti. The iconic ghat, famous for its evening Ganga Aarti, turned into a sea of fervent pilgrims undeterred by the sub-zero temperatures.
Makar Sankranti, marking the sun’s transition into Capricorn, holds immense religious significance in Hinduism. Bathing in the holy Ganga on this day is believed to wash away sins and bring prosperity. Despite the harsh winter chill, pilgrims from across the country braved the weather, chanting hymns and offering prayers.
Local authorities had made elaborate arrangements for the safety and comfort of the visitors. Special bathing ghats were set up, and medical teams stood ready to assist anyone affected by the cold. ‘The faith in Maa Ganga gives us strength to endure any hardship,’ said Rajesh Kumar, a devotee from Uttar Pradesh.
The festivities continued late into the night with the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, where priests offered lamps to the river amidst Vedic chants. Fireworks lit up the sky, adding to the spiritual ambiance. This year’s celebrations come at a time when COVID protocols have been relaxed, allowing larger gatherings after years of restrictions.
As the sun rose on Friday, more devotees are expected to arrive, extending the Snan period through the weekend. Haridwar’s administration urges pilgrims to follow traffic rules and maintain cleanliness to ensure smooth celebrations. Makar Sankranti not only reaffirms faith but also heralds the harvest season, with communities sharing til-gud sweets symbolizing sweetness in life.