PRAYAGRAJ, India – The majestic Magh Mela is unfolding in full splendor along the sacred Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, drawing millions of devotees and curious travelers from across the globe. Amid the sea of chanting pilgrims and vibrant rituals, an Italian visitor named Lucrezia has captured hearts by declaring India her ‘magical homeland’ that resides deep in her soul.
This marks Lucrezia’s third journey to the subcontinent, each visit more enchanting than the last. Speaking exclusively, the globe-trotting adventurer, who travels the world with her father, revealed why India holds an irreplaceable spot in her heart. ‘India is pure magic,’ she enthused. ‘The warmth of its people, the explosion of flavors in every meal, the timeless culture, and the profound Hindu traditions – everything pulls me back time and again.’
Her odyssey began in 2024 with her maiden trip, followed by the grand Mahakumbh in 2025. Now, in 2026, she’s immersed in the spiritual frenzy of the Magh Mela. After soaking in Prayagraj’s divine energies, Lucrezia plans to head to Varanasi, the world’s oldest living city, to deepen her connection.
On this 10-day pilgrimage, Lucrezia opened up about her spiritual guide, whose teachings of compassion, mercy, and letting go of material burdens have transformed her outlook. ‘My guru teaches self-acceptance as the ultimate wisdom,’ she shared. ‘He renounced everything and gained the universe. I aspire to embrace life like him.’
The Magh Mela kicked off on January 3 with the Paush Purnima bath, attracting around 2.2 million faithful on day one alone. Spanning 44 days, the event features six key bathing dates: Makar Sankranti on January 14, Mauni Amavasya on January 18, Basant Panchami on January 23, Maghi Purnima on February 1, and culminating in Maha Shivratri on February 15.
Under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s directives, security is airtight with over 1,500 CCTV cameras monitored round-the-clock from a central command center. Advanced tech, public address systems, watchtowers, and vigilant water police ensure seamless crowd management.
As lakhs continue to plunge into the holy confluence for purification, the Magh Mela reaffirms Prayagraj’s status as an eternal beacon of faith, culture, and human connection, resonating even with far-flung souls like Lucrezia.