Devotees throng sacred rivers for holy dip and spiritual rituals
January 14, 2026: On the auspicious occasion of Magh Ekadashi, thousands of devotees across India gathered at sacred riverbanks to take a holy dip and offer prayers. Large crowds were seen at prominent pilgrimage sites such as the Sangam in Prayagraj, the Sarayu River in Ayodhya, and Ganga Sagar, with pilgrims travelling from far-off regions to participate in the religious observances. Visuals from the sites showed riverbanks filled with families and devotees immersed in devotion.
Bathing in holy rivers on Magh Ekadashi is believed to cleanse sins and bring spiritual merit not only to devotees but also to their ancestors. From early morning, chants, prayers and ritual offerings marked the atmosphere as people followed traditional customs with deep faith. Similar scenes were witnessed in Kolkata and several other cities, where devotees performed rituals with reverence and discipline.
The massive turnout once again highlighted the enduring cultural and spiritual significance of Magh Ekadashi in India. The day’s observances reflected how faith continues to unite people across generations, reinforcing shared traditions and beliefs that remain deeply rooted in the country’s social and religious fabric.