TAG: ART AND CULTURE
THE CONTEXT: The Ganga Sagar Mela, held annually at Sagar Island in West Bengal, has witnessed an astounding influx of pilgrims, with approximately 65 lakh devotees from across the country participating in the holy event.
EXPLANATION:
- The surge in attendance is a direct outcome of the West Bengal government’s strategic promotion of ‘religious tourism’ as a priority sector.
- This phenomenon reflects a broader trend of increasing pilgrims and visitors to religious sites across the state.
- Previously reported at 45 lakh just a day ago, the pilgrimage numbers surged to 65 lakh, underscoring the immense popularity and significance of the Ganga Sagar Mela.
- The governmen has made concerted efforts in promoting religious tourism, turning every religious pilgrimage in the state into a magnet for the faithful.
- The Ganga Sagar Mela spans from January 8 to January 17, with the auspicious timing for the holy dip occurring from 00.13 hrs on January 15 to 00.13 hrs on January 16, aligned with the occasion of Makar Sankranti.
- Devotees flock to the confluence of the Ganga River and the Bay of Bengal to partake in this sacred ritual during the stipulated timeframe.
- To ensure the safety and security of the pilgrims, the West Bengal government has implemented elaborate security arrangements.
- This includes a deployment of 14,000 police personnel, 1150 close circuit television cameras, and 12 drones.
- The administration has constructed 45 watch towers, providing enhanced surveillance. Additionally, pilgrims are transported to Sagar Island through 36 vessels, 100 launches, and six barges across 22 jetties.
- The installation of 300 fog lights on the Muriganga river further enhances safety measures.
GANGA SAGAR MELA:
- It is known as the world’s second largest human congregation after Kumbh.
- It happens every year during Makar Sankranti.
- The mela is held at Sagar Island.
- It has been mentioned in Indian epics such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata, putting its existence as early as 400 BCE.
- The pilgrims after taking a dip in Ganga also visit the temple of Kapil Muni.
Casualties
- Amidst the festive atmosphere, the Ganga Sagar Mela has witnessed two casualties.
- Furthermore, six individuals have been airlifted by various hospitals in Kolkata, emphasizing the need for comprehensive healthcare measures during such large-scale events.
Challenges Amidst Devotion
- Despite the government’s assurances of ample arrangements, challenges persist.
- The gathering of a large number of people has led to a rise in incidents of theft, with 250 arrests reported for various illegal activities.
- Notably, 41 cases of pickpocketing have been recorded.
- Additionally, despite claims of providing night shelters, hundreds of pilgrims are observed sleeping in the open grounds of the Ganga Sagar Mela.
- The Ganga Sagar Mela stands as a testament to the confluence of faith, government initiatives, and challenges inherent in hosting large-scale religious gatherings.
- As pilgrims partake in sacred rituals, the government grapples with ensuring their safety, maintaining order, and addressing the diverse needs of a multitude of devotees.
