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Thousands Brave Freezing Ganga Waters for Sacred Dip
16 Jan
Summary
- Devotees plunged into the Ganga on Makar Sankranti despite 3.6°C temperatures.
- Special arrangements were made at ghats for the large festive crowd.
- Charity and bhandaras distributing khichdi were key aspects of the day.
Despite frigid conditions, with the night's temperature recorded at a chilly 3.6 degrees Celsius, Kanpur witnessed a massive turnout for Makar Sankranti. Devotees began gathering at Ganga ghats before dawn, embracing the cold to perform the sacred ritual of bathing in the holy river.
The district administration had proactively implemented special arrangements at prominent ghats like Brahmavart and Sarsaiya Ghat. Enhanced security with police and water police deployment, along with clearly marked bathing zones, ensured the safety of the immense number of families, women, children, and youth participating.
Beyond the ritualistic dip, the festival's spirit was amplified through charitable acts, including donations of rice, lentils, salt, and woolen clothes. Many also partook in community bhandaras where khichdi prasad was distributed, and offered prayers at local temples, celebrating prosperity and well-being.
