Prayagraj, Jan 9 (NationPress) As the Magh Mela 2026 unfolds in Prayagraj, an Italian traveler named Lucrezia visited the site on Friday and referred to India as genuinely ‘magical’. This marks her third journey to India.

In an interview with IANS, Lucrezia shared, “I travel around the globe with my father. However, India has a unique place in our hearts as it is a truly magical destination, enriched with people, food, culture, and the Hindu religion.”

Discussing her travel experiences, Lucrezia mentioned that she first set foot in India in 2024 and has since returned for significant religious events, including the Maha Kumbh in 2025 and now the Magh Mela.

“I came to India for the first time in 2024, followed by the 2025 Maha Kumbh, and now I’m here for the Magh Mela in 2026. My next stop after Prayagraj will be Varanasi, recognized as one of the oldest cities in the world,” she added.

On her 10-day journey, she spoke about her bond with a spiritual guru and the profound lessons he has imparted.

“He teaches me kindness and encourages me to release what I no longer need, embracing my true self. He possesses everything because he has let go of everything. I admire his lifestyle. He is our international baba and even reaches out to us when we are back in Italy,” she commented.

The inaugural holy dip of the Magh Mela witnessed participation from saints and seers across various Sanatan traditions, enhancing the spiritual ambiance of the event.

With the commencement of the Magh Mela, the entire religious area buzzed with an atmosphere of celebration and devotion.

The 44-day-long Magh Mela commenced on January 3 at the Sangam in Prayagraj, highlighted by the auspicious bath on Paush Purnima.

Six significant bathing occasions are scheduled during the Magh Mela, concluding with the sacred bath on Mahashivratri on February 15.

Millions of devotees took a holy dip in the Triveni Sangam, with numbers anticipated to surge as the event progresses. Official reports indicate over 2.2 million devotees participated in the sacred bath on January 3 alone.

Key bathing dates this year encompass Makar Sankranti on January 14, Mauni Amavasya on January 18, Basant Panchami on January 23, Maghi Purnima on February 1, and Mahashivratri on February 15.

Robust security measures were implemented as per the directives of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Over 1,500 CCTV cameras were installed throughout the city and the mela area, with continuous monitoring from a centralized command center. Modern equipment, public address systems, watchtowers, and active water police patrols ensured effective crowd management and safety at the ghats.

With an impressive turnout, careful arrangements, and profound spiritual energy, the grand initiation of Magh Mela–2026 has once again cemented Prayagraj’s status as an enduring hub of faith and culture.