Magh Snan is the holy bathing ritual at Sangam in Prayagraj in the Magh month as per traditional calendar followed in North India . Magh Snan 2024 begins on January 15 and ends on March 8, 2024. Sangam at Prayag or Allahabad is the point where the three holy rivers – Ganga , Yamuna and Saraswati meets. Taking a holy dip at the confluence of these three rivers is believed to help in attaining Moksha.
The important bathing dates during Magh Snan:
- January 15 (Makar Sankranti)
- January 25 (Paush Purnima)
- February 9 (Mauni Amavasya)
- February 14 (Basant Panchami)
- February 24 (Maghi Poornima)
- and March 8 (Maha Shivratri)
The popular belief is that taking bath during the auspicious period when Sun or Surya enters Makar Rashi or Capricorn Zodiac will help in attaining moksha. The northern transition of sun is believed to be highly meritorious and helps in attaining moksha.
Magh Snan begins on Paush Purnima and ends on Maha Shivratri. During the period of Magh Snan a temporary tent city arises on the banks of Sangam in Prayag. Sangam is the point where the three holy rivers – Ganga , Yamuna and Saraswati meets. Taking a holy dip at the confluence of these three rivers is believed to help in attaining Moksha.
Numerous Hindu religious organizations and ashrams erect separate camps and free food is provided during the period. Kalpavasis live in these camps during the period. Important bathing dates during the period attract thousands of devotees.
Important bathing dates during Magh Snan are Paush Purnima, Makar Sankranti, Mauni Amavasya, Basant Panchmi, Magha Poornima and Mahashivaratri.
Magh Snan is not held when Kumbh Mela and Ardh Kumbh Mela takes place.