A journey of faith: Gangasagar Mela

As night falls, the illuminated Gangasagar gateway welcomes millions of pilgrims arriving at Sagar Island between January 10 and January 17 to seek blessings at the sacred confluence of the River Ganga and the Bay of Bengal during Gangasagar Mela.

Massive crowds of devotees navigate organised pathways at the Kapil Muni Temple, the spiritual heart of the pilgrimage.

On January 14, 2026, the auspicious day of Makar Sankranti, millions of pilgrims converge at dawn for the ‘Punya Snan’ — the sacred dip that marks the spiritual peak of Gangasagar Mela.

Deeply rooted in tradition, women prepare ‘Sankalpa’ offerings on the riverbank, seeking blessings for their families.

A moment of pure transcendence as a devotee offers ‘Arghya’ to the rising sun, symbolising the purification of the soul.

Monks and volunteers distribute 'Prasad' to the endless stream of pilgrims seeking blessings.

Blending tradition with awareness, eco-friendly mascots from the Gangasagar Bakkhali Development Authority (GBDA) guide pilgrims toward a 'Green Mela'.

The streets come alive with the rhythmic grace of traditional processions, showcasing Bengal’s rich folk heritage.

Graceful dancers adorned with tiers of glowing lamps create a mesmerising spectacle during the evening cultural celebrations.

Priests perform a synchronised 'Ganga Aarti' under powerful spotlights.

The Kapil Muni Temple glows under a canopy of neon lights, marking the culmination of a journey where faith meets the infinite.