PRAYAGRAJ, Feb. 16 -- The 44-day Magh Mela 2026 ended successfully with an overwhelming turnout of devotees, with the sixth and final bathing of Mahashivratri held at the Sangam on Sunday.

Around 40 lakh devotees took the dip of faith all through the day after which devotees who had been camping at the Mela began returning home.

From early, a massive influx of pilgrims was seen at the Triveni banks, and by 4 pm, more than 36 lakh devotees had taken a dip. However, by the end of the day, 40 lakh devotees had taken a dip.

Magh Mela officer Rishi Raj said that the crowd size far exceeded the initial expectations, driven largely by the large presence of local devotees.

Heavy footfall was also recorded at Shiva temples near the Sangam, pro...