Rajgir’s first Shahi Snan of the historic Malmas Mela concluded amid religious observances, with large crowds of devotees gathering at sacred ponds and ghats from early morning. The event witnessed traditional rituals by saints and devotees at multiple locations across the fairgrounds.
Saints and seers from 19 akharas participated in the first Shahi Snan following traditional customs. Religious processions, chants, and rituals were conducted as part of the observances across Rajgir.
According to the administration, around 50,000 devotees took part in the first Shahi Snan. A large number of devotees also arrived in Rajgir from distant districts and other states.
Long queues were reported from the morning at Brahmakund and other sacred ponds for ritual bathing. Devotees believe that bathing and worship during Malmas bring spiritual merit.
The Nalanda district administration had arranged security and crowd-management measures across the mela area. Surveillance was conducted through CCTV cameras, while police personnel and administrative officials remained deployed throughout the venue.
Monitoring was also carried out through drone cameras and a control room to ensure the safety of devotees attending the mela. Additional police personnel were stationed at major ghats and access routes.
Personnel of the Bihar Police continued crowd-control operations and assisted devotees in conducting ritual bathing safely. Medical teams and ambulance services were also deployed.
The ceremonial procession of akharas remained a focal point of the mela. Large crowds gathered to witness the processions featuring traditional attire, flags, drums, and religious chants.
The Malmas Mela, counted among Bihar’s major religious events, is regarded as having historical and religious importance. Held every three years, the mela attracts devotees from across the country.
Local traders and hotel operators have also reported increased business activity during the mela, with markets, dharamshalas, and hotels witnessing higher footfall from devotees.
Videos of the Shahi Snan and religious processions of saints have also been circulating widely on social media. Devotees have been sharing images of rituals and Rajgir during the mela.
Officials of Bihar’s tourism department said the number of devotees may increase further in the coming days during the mela. The administration has appealed to people not to pay attention to rumours and to follow designated routes.
