Ganga Sagar Snan 2026 Kicks Off Today: Thousands Dive into Holy Waters on Makar Sankranti
On January 14, 2026, the vibrant Ganga Sagar Snan 2026 unfolds at Sagar Island in West Bengal, drawing lakhs of Hindu devotees for the sacred confluence of Ganga and Bay of Bengal. As Makar Sankranti hits at 3:04 PM IST, this timeless ritual blends faith, festivity, and renewal—perfect timing amid winter's chill signaling longer days ahead.
Pilgrims brave early chills for the auspicious holy dip from 5:38 AM to 7:14 AM, just before sunrise at 7:14 AM. Why now? Makar Sankranti marks the Sun's shift from Sagittarius to Capricorn, heralding Uttarayan—the "northern journey" of prosperity in Hindu lore. In today's fast-paced world, this event matters as a cultural anchor, uniting generations amid modern distractions.
Sacred Rituals Ignite the Dawn
Devotees rise around 3 AM for Kapil Muni worship, honoring the sage whose penance brought Ganga to earth per mythology. Post-puja, yagnas and maha puja echo across the shores.
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Holy Dip: Chant "Ganga Maiya ki Jai" while immersing—believed to wash sins and grant moksha.
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Arghya to Sun God: Offer water at sunrise, fasting till rituals end.
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Temple Visit: Head to the iconic Kapil Muni Temple nearby for darshan.
Experts like astrologer Pt. Rajesh Sharma note, "Ganga Sagar Snan 2026 aligns perfectly with Panchang; the muhurat promises divine blessings for health and harmony."
Why Ganga Sagar Snan 2026 Stands Out
This isn't just a bath—it's salvation at Ganga's last earthly point. Legends tie it to King Sagar's sons, redeemed by Kapil Muni. The fair, spanning days before and after Makar Sankranti, buzzes with stalls, bhajans, and alms-giving.
Live updates show smooth ferry ops despite crowds; authorities urge hydration and crowd discipline. For remote devotees, virtual pujas via apps offer alternatives.
Practical Takeaways for Devotees:
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Arrive pre-dawn; book ferries from Kolkata early.
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Carry eco-friendly offerings—ban plastics for Ganga's purity.
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Post-dip, relish til-gud laddoos for Sankranti sweetness.
A Timely Call to Faith and Unity
Ganga Sagar Snan 2026 reminds us of enduring traditions fueling national spirit. As Sun sets at 5:57 PM, expect fireworks and aarti. Whether on-site or observing from afar, embrace this for inner peace. Stay tuned for tomorrow's Snan wrap-up.
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