In 2026, a rare confluence of Shatila Ekadashi and Makar Sankranti occurred after 23 years. This special alignment generated considerable enthusiasm among devotees. A large crowd of devotees gathered at the Ganga ghats in Patna from early morning for bathing and charitable donations. It is believed that bathing in the Ganges and donating sesame seeds on this day bring special blessings from Lord Vishnu.
A surge of faith at the Ganga ghats from dawn
Devotees started arriving at major Ganga ghats in Patna, including Bans Ghat, Kangan Ghat, Gaighat, Digha, and Collectorate Ghat, from 4 AM onwards. The atmosphere at the ghats became devotional with chants of "Har Har Gange" and "Jai Shri Hari." Despite the cold, devotees took a dip in the holy river, seeking spiritual merit.
Religious significance of Shatila Ekadashi
According to priests, Shatila Ekadashi holds special significance. Performing six types of rituals involving sesame seeds – bathing with sesame seeds, applying a sesame seed paste, performing a sesame seed fire ritual, donating sesame seeds, consuming sesame seeds, and offering sesame seed water – is believed to absolve all sins. This year, the confluence with Makar Sankranti has multiplied the auspiciousness of the occasion.
Special importance of charity on Makar Sankranti
Charity also holds special importance on Makar Sankranti. Devotees donated sesame seeds, jaggery, khichdi (a rice and lentil dish), blankets, clothes, and food grains. Temporary stalls were set up near the ghats for charitable donations, where essential items were distributed to the needy. It is believed that donations made on this day yield eternal rewards.
Elaborate security arrangements by the administration
Considering the large crowd of devotees, the district administration and police made extensive security arrangements. Magistrates, divers, and police personnel were deployed at the Ganga ghats. The NDRF team was also on alert to handle any untoward incident.
Devotees expressed deep faith.
After bathing in the Ganges, devotees visited temples to offer prayers to Lord Vishnu and Surya Dev (the Sun God). People believed that bathing and giving alms during this rare conjunction, which occurred after 23 years, would bring happiness, peace, and prosperity to their lives. Throughout the day, the Ganga ghats in Patna remained centers of faith and devotion.
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