Devotees take first holy dip of Ardh Kumbh in Haridwar

Ardh Kumbh Mela 2016 begins in Haridwar

Haridwar: Thousands of devotees thronged the 'Har ki Pauri' ghat in Haridwar to take first festive bath on the occasion of Makar Sankranti during the Ardh Kumbh mela on Thursday morning.

The administration has made elaborate arrangements for holy bath on the occasion of Makar Sankranti. As Makar Sankranti spreads to two days this year, the festive bath will take place on January 14 and 15.

Millions of pilgrims come to participate in the holy event of Maha Kumbh with tremendous faith.The pilgrims come from all walks of life, with a belief that their sins will be washed off in the holy waters of the sacred river Ganges if they take a dip during the Kumbh.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has wished the nation on the occasion of Makar Sankranti.

"On Makar Sankranti, I extend my heartfelt greetings to people across the nation," the Prime Minister tweeted.