Prayagraj: Barely three days before Maghi Purnima snan, the second last main holy dip of the ongoing Magh Mela, on Feb 1, it will mark the end of kalpwas period and lakhs of pilgrims who camped on the banks of Ganga will start their journey back to their respective destinations.Assuming 4 lakh kalpwasis will be returning to their hometowns after Maghi Purnima snan, mela police on Wednesday issued an advisory for people, including those arriving on mela campus to take their family member kalpwasis back with them. Mela police advisory will fix entry and exit routes for different directions.Though they had to brave bitter cold and lack of amenities in the initial stage, kalpwasis were enthusiastic throughout and terming their stay an unforgettable experience. Most of them claimed to have learned about different social, cultural and religious beliefs and spiritual activities.Chitrakoot resident Radha Rani Dubey told TOI, “Apart from religious and spiritual activities, I and my family members witnessed a sea of devotees from different states and kalpwasis from different districts spending their time on the banks of Ganga and participating in religious and spiritual activities together. We made new companions, formed groups and resolved to remain in touch with each other always.”Pratapgarh resident D K Dubey said, “‘Kalpwas vrata’ (fast) has to be performed before being honoured as kalpwasis. Spending one month on the banks of Ganga and leading an austere life in such weather is no easy task.”Ramanand, who spent the entire month on the banks of Ganga, said, “Every individual here learns different experiences. We invited our relatives and neighbours at Sangam and spent a wonderful time. A diverse spiritual experience is possible only at the Sangam.”Ramesh Dwivedi from Sulantpur said, “I decided to undergo kalpwas even at the age of 65. It was my inner strength that enabled me to stay put on the banks, braving all odds,” said .During the stay, mela visitors too interacted with kalpwasis. Listening to shlokas and mantras being chanted here inspired other pilgrims and devotees to stay on for hours.
