Makar Sankranti 2026: Devotees brave cold for holy dip, unique soil ritual at Keleghai

• Thousands gather at Keleghai river ghat in Purba Medinipur for Makar Snan on Makar Sankranti.
• Devotees perform a unique ritual of collecting soil from the riverbed during the auspicious time.
• The collected soil is placed at the base of a Tulsi plant, believed to bring happiness, peace, and prosperity.
• The traditional 'Tulsi Chara Mela', approximately 500 years old, is held annually on the river banks.
• The fair continues to draw thousands, who take a holy dip and participate in the Mela for family well-being.

Why It Matters: Makar Sankranti sees thousands at Keleghai for holy dips, a unique soil ritual, and the ancient Tulsi Chara Mela.