The Magh Melā: Prayag’s “Other” Holy Festival

Abstract

The article "The Magh Melā: Prayag’s “Other” Holy Festival" by Ramdas Lamb explores the Magh Mela in Prayag (Allahabad), an annual Hindu festival often overshadowed by the larger Kumbha Mela. The article details the historical evolution and significance of the Magh Mela, highlighting its predominantly Vaishnava character and the increasing government support it receives. Lamb describes the festival's organization, including the temporary city built on the dry riverbed, and the crucial role of various religious organizations, particularly the Ramanandi Sampraday. The abstract also covers the participation of different types of ascetics (sadhus), their unique austerities like jal tap and dhuni tap, and the experiences of pilgrims, especially those undertaking the month-long vow of kalpavas. The central ritual of the Magh Mela is the daily ritual bath in the Triveni Sangam, with special emphasis on auspicious bathing days and the grand procession of ascetics on the new moon.