The rare planetary alignment in which the Sun is positioned in the zodiac sign of Makara (Capricorn) and Guru, or Brihaspati (Jupiter), enters the zodiac sign of Kumbha (Aquarius) occurs during the month of Māgha.

Māgha is a month that is especially dear to deities such as the Sun, Shiva, Vishnu, and the Ganga.

Since this is the period after Makara Saṅkramaṇa when the Sun moves into the Uttarāyaṇa phase, it is considered the time when the deities are awake.

As all divine energies and the Sun are powerful during this time, nature remains pure and radiant.

This period is considered highly auspicious for japa (chanting), meritorious deeds, meditation, worship, and for performing consecrations.

The rare planetary alignment in which the Sun is positioned in the zodiac sign of Makara (Capricorn) and Guru, or Brihaspati (Jupiter), enters the zodiac sign of Kumbha (Aquarius) occurs during the month of Māgha.

Māgha is a month that is especially dear to deities such as the Sun, Shiva, Vishnu, and the Ganga.

Since this is the period after Makara Saṅkramaṇa, when the Sun moves into the Uttarāyaṇa phase, it is considered the time when the deities are awake.

As all divine energies and the Sun are powerful during this time, nature remains pure and radiant.

This period is considered highly auspicious for japa (chanting), meritorious deeds, meditation, worship, and for performing consecrations.

It is a time when double the results are प्राप्त (received) in matters related to deities.

The Purāṇas describe Māgha as the most excellent among the months.

Māgha is the period when the influence of these deities remains at its peak at the Bhāratappuzha River, which is known as the “Dakṣiṇa Gaṅgā” (Ganga of the South) and is associated with the presence of the seven sacred rivers.

The sacred baths taken in the Bhāratappuzha during the month of Māgha strengthen, at a subtle level, an individual, the family he represents, and his community.

Māgha is the month to wash away all sins mixed with one’s actions and those accrued through experiences, and to enter into a prosperous life filled with merit.

Everyone is welcome to the Mahā Māgha Mahotsavam being conducted during this month of Māgha for the complete prosperity of the land of Kerala.

Kerala’s Kumbha Mela will be held from January 18 to February 3 at Tirunavaya in Malappuram district.