Magh Mela 2026: What is Kalpvas, and why do devotees leave their homes for a month?
- bySherya
- 05 Jan, 2026
Magh Mela 2026: The Magh Mela has begun in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. Devotees perform Kalpavas during the month of Magh. This begs the question: what is Kalpavas, and how is it performed?
Magh Mela 2026

1 /7
The Magh Mela, held annually in the sacred land of Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, presents a magnificent confluence of faith, penance, and restraint. During the winter season, thousands of devotees perform Kalpavas on the banks of the Sangat River. This begs the question: what is Kalpavas, and why is it so special?

2 /7
During the Magh Mela, devotees perform Kalpavas. This is a sacred practice in Sanatan Dharma, where devotees leave their homes for spiritual purification. This practice is considered a tradition of their ancestors, and religious scriptures consider Kalpavas a particularly virtuous act.
3 /7
During Kalpavas, devotees abandon their homes and the comforts of everyday life for a month, devoting themselves to meditation, fasting, and worship. This renunciation not only symbolizes the purification of the mind and soul but also helps to bring mental peace.
4 /7
During Kalpvas, devotees bathe, meditate, recite the Hanuman Chalisa, recite the Ramayana, and engage in satsang. This separation from the everyday world provides spiritual energy and mental peace. This process helps in the soul's evolution and the attainment of the fruits of its actions.
5 /7
The festival held during the month of Magh is considered highly virtuous in Hinduism. Millions of devotees gather at Prayagraj and other pilgrimage sites to bathe in the Ganges and other holy rivers. Worship and bathing in the Ganges during this month are believed to cleanse sins and bring happiness and prosperity to life.
6 /7
Kalpavas not only brings personal spiritual benefits but also promotes social harmony. Devotees gather at fairs to share religious teachings, traditions, and rituals. This experience is a lifelong memory.
7 /7
Leaving home and family for a month to practice spiritual practice provides the devotee with mental balance and inner peace. It is a golden opportunity to escape the temptations of life. Furthermore, devotees believe that the rituals and prayers performed during this period yield special results.






