Gangasagar Mela 2025: Date, time, and significance of Sankranti Snan

Gangasagar Mela 2025: Date, time, and significance of Sankranti Snan

The Gangasagar Mela, also known as the Gangasagar Snan or Gangasagar Yatra, is an annual religious festival held on Sagar Island in the state of West Bengal. This event witnesses a grand gathering of Hindu pilgrims who come from all corners of the country to take a holy dip in the sacred waters of the Ganga River.

Located at the confluence of the Hooghly River and the Bay of Bengal, the mela draws thousands of devotees seeking spiritual blessings. The popular saying, "All pilgrimages may be visited multiple times, but Gangasagar is a must-visit once," highlights the unique significance of this pilgrimage. It is believed that a dip in the Ganga at Sagar Island during this auspicious time is equivalent to the merit of performing 100 Ashwamedha Yagnas (a grand Vedic ritual).

Gangasagar Mela: Religious Importance

Gangasagar Mela is celebrated as a major religious and cultural event. Devotees participate in rituals such as taking a holy dip in the Ganga, offering prayers to Lord Surya (the Sun God), and performing "Deepdan" (lighting lamps). The festival is considered the second-largest religious gathering in India, following the Kumbh Mela, showcasing both spiritual fervour and cultural vibrancy.

Gangasagar Mela 2025: Dates and Timings

In 2025, the Gangasagar Mela will begin on January 10 and conclude on January 18, with the sacred ritual of Makar Sankranti Snan taking place on January 15. The festival typically starts a few days before Makar Sankranti and concludes shortly after.

Makar Sankranti Snan: Significance

Makar Sankranti is a highly auspicious occasion in Hinduism, marked by the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara Rashi). A holy dip in the Ganga on this day is believed to wash away sins and bestow divine blessings. Devotees also offer "Arghya" (water) to the Sun God as a gesture of gratitude and worship, seeking liberation (moksha) and spiritual upliftment.

The Gangasagar Mela is not just a festival; it is a spiritual journey that connects devotees to their faith and heritage. The event stands as a testament to India's rich cultural and religious traditions, offering a unique experience of devotion, rituals, and community gathering.

For those seeking spiritual solace and blessings, the Gangasagar Mela in January 2025 promises to be a divine and unforgettable experience.