In Photos: A Glimpse of Prayagraj A Day Before Kumbh Mela

Here’s a glimpse of the Kumbh Nagari, in all its light and colours.

(Photo: Abhishek Ranjan/The Quint)

Prayagraj is all decked up for the Ardh Kumbh Mela, the largest congregation of devotees in the world!

While Tuesday, 15 January is when the fair officially begins on the occasion of Makar Sankranti, thousands made their way to the Sangam for a ritual dip in the waters on Monday, 14 January as well.

Here’s a glimpse of the Kumbh Nagari, in all its light and colours.

A devotee rests, while workers prepare for the mega event.

But first, let’s take a selfie!

A devotee takes a dip in the Triveni Sangam. Shahi Snan is the central highlight of the Kumbh Mela and the most important part of the celebration.

Before the first day of Shahi Snan (15 January), cleanliness of the water is top priority!

Well, also the hairstyle. A barber sits under a crossing bridge in Prayagraj.

UP CM Yogi Adityanath has all eyes on the preparations for the Ardh Kumbh mela, which he recently renamed as Kumbh.

A cooking gas cylinder exploded in a tent at the Digambar Ani Akhada on the Kumbh Mela site Monday, triggering a massive fire, prompting Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to direct officials to compensate the loss immediately.

Two sadhus from Digambar Ani Akhada inspect the burst cylinder which caused the fire.

No changing rooms for men who take a dip in the holy water.

There will be magnificent processions of seers and their disciples, and members of various akhadas to take part in the ritual of Shahi Snan tomorrow.

Every year during Kumbh Mela, hundreds of Naga Sadhus gather to take a holy dip in the Ganges.