Maagh Maas 2019 – Ardh Kumbh

Maagh maas begins from 21st January 2019 Paush Poornima concluding on the 4th March 2019 Mahashivratri.

In Prayagraj, as the word Kumbh enters ones ears the picturesque vision of Triveni Sangam, the sacred confluence of the Ganga, the Yamuna and the mystical Saraswati flashes in the minds of people. At the sacred confluence huge multitudes In Prayagraj, as the word Kumbh enters ones ears the picturesque vision of Triveni Sangam, the sacred confluence of the Ganga, the Yamuna and the mystical Saraswati flashes in the minds of people. At the sacred confluence huge multitudes move like waves in the ocean filled with sense of devotion. ‘Shahi Snaan’ of Akharas, chanting of vedic mantras and elucidations of religious hymns in the Saint pandals, proclamations of knowledge, tatvamimansa and truth by rishis, charming music, mesmerising sound of multitudes of instruments, holy dip in sangam with utmost devotion fills the heart of devotees with immense joy and offering prayers at many divine temples exhibits the greatness of Prayagraj Kumbh. like waves in the ocean filled with sense of devotion. ‘Shahi Snaan’ of Akharas, chanting of vedic mantras and elucidations of religious hymns in the Saint pandals, proclamations of knowledge, tatvamimansa and truth by rishis, charming music, mesmerising sound of multitudes of instruments, holy dip in sangam with utmost devotion fills the heart of devotees with immense joy and offering prayers at many divine temples exhibits the greatness of PrayagRaj Kumbh.

Though the entire Maagh maas is considered sacred and fortunate there are some ‘tithies’ which bear special significance. Makar Sankranti on 14/15th January ,is one of the very important period when various rituals are performed by the saints and kalpwasis. The name itself suggests the transit of sun from Sagittarius to Capricorn.

  Ekadashi -Shat tila and Jaya Ekadashi of this maagh maas are significant for fasting, prayers and offerings.The second most important event of the Maagh maas is Mauni Amavasya on 4th February, also a Somvati Amavasya . Bathing, offerings, prayers and fasting are all considered important on this day as it is believed that the Hindu gods and goddesses descend to take a holy dip at the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna and mythical Saraswati at Tirthraj Prayag .It is widely believed that on this date the planetary positions are most favorable for bathing in the holy river.  Rishabh Dev who is considered the first sage, broke his long vow of silence on this day and bathed in the holy waters at Sangam. This day observes the maximum number of pilgrims in the Mela Area.

 Til Chaturthi or Shankta Chaturthi is observed. The fifth date is meant to worship Lord Vishnu with Goddess Lakshmi. It is believed that the Goddess descended on earth on this date as per the desire of Lord Vishnu. That is why it heralds the beginning of the spring season and known as Basant Panchami on 10th February . It is the third most important bathing day of Maagh.

Similarly, sixth and seventh date are also important for fasting and ritual bath.The Maagh month finally concludes on the full moon day or Purnima when sun enters the Shravan Nakshaktra. On this day Kalpwasis observe fast and perform rituals marking its conclusion.