Asim Bando's KOLKATA BLOG

Today is Makar Sankranti. More than 4 lakh devotees taken the holy dip on the Gangasagar at Sagar Island 180 Kms from Kolkata. Last night rituals with fire was performed and before the dip, rituals on the water also performed. Then, lakhs of pilgrims took holy dip on Gangasagar. -- A. B.

Joydeb-Kenduli Mela running from this auspicious Makar Sankranti for 3 days at the riverbank of Ajoy of Joydeb in Birbhum district of Bengal. A flavour of rural fair alongwith live performance of Bauls are the main attractions of this mela. Many changes occurred in this year's fair - about 40% stalls and 'Aakhra' of Bauls shifted at the sand bank of river Ajoy, so the village may spare some space for day-to-day works. Moreover, the riverbank provided 'moram' road. Increased the number of lavatory and drinking water tube-wells. Lights, securities and administrative amenities provide this year for 7 days in spite of 3 days only. About 500 police personnel including females provided at all the 3 watch towers and 6 police booths in the fair. A details guide map of the mela also being provided this year. As a whole, Joydeb mela is running with changed and enhanced facilities this year.-- A. B.

On the occasion of Makar Sankranti, enthusiastic persons, especially kids are flying kites across Bengal. -- A. B.

Pilgrims across India on the way to Gangasagar about 180 Kms south of Kolkata, to take holy dip on the auspicious day of Makar Sankranti. -- A. B.