As the sacred banks of the Ganga and Yamuna prepare to host the annual Magh Mela, a historic chapter is being added to the centuries-old tradition of Kalpavas. For the first time, transgender (Kinnar) saints will formally observe Kalpavas during the month-long religious congregation at the holy Sangam in Prayagraj.
The arrival of Kalpavasis has already begun, and by January 2 the Mela area is expected to be fully occupied by devotees. The ritualistic Kalpavas will commence on January 3 (Paush Shukla Purnima) and conclude on February 1 (Magh Purnima). During this period, devotees will live an austere life of discipline, spiritual practice, ritual bathing, and charity.
First-Ever Participation of Kinnar Akhara
In a landmark development, 25 saints of the Kinnar Akhara will observe Kalpavas in accordance with traditional rituals. Among them are Harshita Nand Giri (26) and Shivani Nand Giri (25). Transgender saints from various states have begun arriving in Prayagraj to take part in this spiritual observance.
The tradition of Kalpavas in the Prayag region is considered ancient and deeply rooted in Sanatan culture. This year, an estimated 20 to 25 lakh devotees are expected to stay at the Sangam banks during the Kalpavas period.
Camp Established in Sector-6
On Wednesday, the Kinnar Akhara performed Bhoomi Pujan (ground worship) for its camp in Sector-6 of the Mela area. Addressing the gathering, Mahamandaleshwar Swami Kalyani Nand Giri, popularly known as Chhoti Maa, said that Kinnar saints, ascetics, disciples, and devotees will reside in the camp and follow the strict code of Kalpavas throughout the Magh Mela.
Several prominent members of the Akhara, including Rahul, Mahant Saraswati Nand Giri, Kamakshi Nand Giri, Harshita Nand Giri, Shivani Nand Giri, Manisha Nand Giri, and Anjali Nand Giri, were present during the ceremony.
No Network Issues During Magh Mela
Meanwhile, authorities have ensured uninterrupted mobile connectivity in the vast Mela area. The Department of Telecommunications, Uttar Pradesh (East) Licensed Service Area, has installed six Cell on Wheels (COW) mobile towers, equipped with a total of 53 Base Transceiver Stations (BTS).
Addressing a press conference at the GPO office, Additional Director General Arun Kumar Verma said that the facilities include 6 BTS of BSNL, 20 of Jio, 15 of Airtel, and 12 of Vodafone-Idea, all of which have been activated to prevent network congestion during the Magh Mela.
With spiritual fervour, inclusivity, and modern infrastructure coming together, the Magh Mela 2026 at Prayagraj is set to mark a meaningful and historic convergence of tradition and progress.
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