Prayagraj: The auspicious tradition of Kalpavas, observed during the holy month of Magh, is set to conclude on 12 February as thousands of devotees take a ceremonial dip at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers in Prayagraj. More than a million people have participated in this spiritual retreat during the ongoing Kumbh Mela, seeking divine blessings and purification of the soul.
Kalpavas is a deeply revered religious practice where devotees spend a month on the sandy banks of the Sangam, dedicating themselves to austerity, fasting, and spiritual discourse. According to Hindu scriptures, observing Kalpavas in Prayagraj during the Magh month grants the fruits of a lifetime of penance, ensuring both worldly and spiritual upliftment.
On Magh Purnima, the last day of Kalpavas, devotees perform sacred rituals before returning home, marking the completion of their month-long spiritual retreat.
Kalpavas Rituals and Observances
As per tradition, Kalpavasis begin their final day by taking a holy dip at Sangam, followed by prayers, offerings, and acts of charity. Religious texts such as the Padma Purana and Shrimad Bhagavatam highlight the importance of Kalpavas, stating that those who adhere to self-discipline and devotion during this period attain divine grace. While most devotees observe Kalpavas from Paush Purnima to Magh Purnima, some follow an extended schedule, beginning on Paush Ekadashi and concluding on Magh Dwadashi.
Magh Purnima: The Culmination of Kalpavas
Today, on Magh Purnima, Kalpavasis will conclude their spiritual journey as per Vedic traditions. Lord Dattatreya’s guidelines, mentioned in the Padma Purana, outline the rules for observing and concluding Kalpavas. On this day, devotees observe a strict fast, take a dip at the Sangam, and participate in the Satyanarayan Katha in their makeshift hermitages.
Community Traditions and Homecoming
After performing the concluding rituals, including havan and offerings to priests, devotees immerse the barley sprouts they had planted at the start of Kalpavas into the Ganges. This ritual signifies the completion of their vows. Many Kalpavasis also take home a sacred Tulsi plant as a symbol of spiritual fulfilment.
In several villages, the return of Kalpavasis is marked by traditional community feasts, known as ‘Bhoj-Bhat,’ where families and neighbours come together to celebrate the successful completion of the sacred observance.
A Transformative Spiritual Experience
Kalpavas at Sangam remains a time-honoured tradition that fosters spiritual awakening, self-discipline, and religious devotion. With the culmination of this year’s Kalpavas, devotees return home enriched with a sense of purity and renewal, keeping alive a tradition that has been followed for centuries.
As the sun sets on another sacred month of devotion, the spirit of Kalpavas continues to inspire millions, ensuring that faith and tradition endure through generations.
Kalpavas 2025 concludes tomorrow (Feb 12) on Magh Purnima, as thousands take a holy dip at Sangam, Prayagraj, marking the end of their month-long spiritual retreat. Spirituality Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
