‘Mini Kumbh’ begins today at Triveni Sangam in Hooghly, fair to continue till February 13

The fifth edition of the Mini Kumbh fair commenced today, Wednesday, February 11, at the historic Triveni Sangam in Hooghly district. The three-day festival will conclude on February 13 with the Magh Sankranti holy dip (punya snan). Sacred water from Prayagraj has been brought to Triveni Sangam for the occasion, adding to the religious significance of the fair.

Triveni Sangam, historically referred to as “Muktaveni,” has deep-rooted mythological and cultural importance. According to tradition, Goddess Behula, carrying Lakshmindar from Gangabakshe, paused at Triveni Ghat. The site, along with nearby Saptagram, was once a prominent trading port, and several ancient temples and remnants of the era, including Leader Dhopani Ghat, continue to attract devotees.

This year, saints from across the country have arrived at Triveni, with special arrangements made for their akharas (religious camps). A gathering of saints will take place at Shivpur Maidan, while the final day will feature a Nagar Kirtan procession culminating in the holy dip at Saptarshi Ghat. The schedule includes a Gita Yajna on February 11, Rudrabhishek Yajna and Sahasranama recitations on February 12, and the Amrit Yug Snan with Rajsi Yatra on February 13.

Swami Shivananda Maharaj confirmed that formal programs started today, and a community feast (Bhandara) will follow the final dip. Saints will also circumambulate the entire Triveni town on the concluding day. Organizers are keeping alive the centuries-old tradition of Kumbh rituals that link Triveni Sangam to broader spiritual practices observed in Prayag.

Security arrangements have been reinforced for the fair. Hooghly Rural Superintendent of Police Kamanashish Sen has inspected the grounds, confirming deployment of a large police force, installation of over 100 CCTV cameras, and enforcement of “No Entry” zones to ensure safety and crowd management throughout the festival.