Kinnar Akhara Mahamandaleshwar Urges Devotees to Prayagraj

New Delhi, january 03, 2026: As the sacred sands of the Triveni Sangam transform into a sprawling city of tents, Mahamandaleshwar Kalyani Nand Giri of the Kinnar Akhara has extended a heartfelt invitation to devotees across the globe to participate in the Magh Mela 2026.

Following her ritual holy dip on the auspicious occasion of Paush Purnima (January 3, 2026), the prominent spiritual leader emphasized the profound spiritual benefits of the annual pilgrimage and the unique inclusivity that defines this year’s gathering.

A Call for Spiritual Renewal and Cleanliness

Speaking to reporters at the Sangam, Mahamandaleshwar Kalyani Nand Giri highlighted the significance of the “Paush Purnima Snan,” which marks the official commencement of the 45-day festival.

“Today’s dip is of immense spiritual importance. I urge everyone to come to Prayagraj, experience this sacred event, and seek the blessings of Mother Ganga,” she stated.

Beyond the spiritual aspect, the Mahamandaleshwar also issued a strong appeal for environmental consciousness. She urged pilgrims to maintain the sanctity of the Sangam by keeping the area clean, reminding the faithful that preserving the purity of the holy rivers is a collective religious duty.

Historical Participation of the Kinnar Akhara

The 2026 Magh Mela holds historical weight for the Kinnar Akhara. For the first time, the Akhara is observing a formal ‘Kalpvas’—a month-long period of austere living, prayer, and meditation on the riverbanks.

Earlier this week, Kalyani Nand Giri performed the Bhoomi Pujan (groundbreaking ceremony) for the Kinnar Akhara’s camp located near the Old GT Road. The camp is set to host Kinnar saints from across India and abroad, featuring:

• Daily Spiritual Discourses: Sessions on Sanatan Dharma and inclusivity.
• Cultural Programs: Traditional music and dance performances by members of the transgender community.
• Social Advocacy: Efforts to promote the cow as ‘Rashtra Mata’ (Mother of the Nation) and fostering social harmony.

Key Dates for Magh Mela 2026

The Mela, often referred to as the “Mini Kumbh,” will continue until mid-February. Devotees planning to visit can mark the following major bathing dates:

Safety and Administration

Reflecting on the massive turnout on the opening day, Kalyani Nand Giri remarked that the sheer scale of devotion made the event feel like a full-scale Kumbh Mela. The Uttar Pradesh administration has deployed extensive security measures, including 3D mapping for crowd control, multiple pontoon bridges, and specialized medical camps to manage the estimated 15 crore (150 million) pilgrims expected throughout the season.

The Kinnar Akhara’s active involvement this year serves as a powerful symbol of the evolving face of Sanatan Dharma, where tradition and social inclusion flow together like the Ganga and Yamuna.