Devotion and Tradition: Makar Sankranti Celebrations in Varanasi and Ayodhya

During Makar Sankranti, devotees thronged to Varanasi and Ayodhya, bathing in holy rivers and engaging in religious rituals. Varanasi's Kashi Vishwanath temple served traditional food offerings, while Ayodhya saw mass gatherings. Authorities implemented extensive arrangements to ensure orderly celebrations amid a significant influx of visitors at key religious sites.

On the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti, countless devotees converged in Varanasi and Ayodhya to perform sacred rituals, including the traditional holy dip in the revered Ganga and Saryu rivers.

In Varanasi, the Kashi Vishwanath temple became the focal point of devotion as Lord Vishwanath was offered traditional 'sattvik' delicacies such as khichdi, chivda, and peanut brittle. These were part of the 'bhog' rituals followed by the 'Madhyan Bhog Aarti' amid the resonant chants of Vedic hymns.

Meanwhile, Ayodhya also pulsed with spiritual fervor, with devotees bathing in the Saryu river at dawn and proceeding to offer prayers at prominent temples. Officials ensured smooth proceedings by implementing comprehensive security and crowd management systems to accommodate the festivity's vast attendance.

(With inputs from agencies.)