According to Ujjain's astrologer Pt. Manish Sharma, there is mention of Magh bath in the scriptures. There is a tradition of bathing in holy rivers like Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati, Narmada, Shipra, Godavari. It is written in the scriptures that – Maghe nimajnan yatra sin parihret tatah.
The meaning of this verse is that bathing in holy rivers in the month of Magh destroys sins.
In the month of Magh, it is very auspicious to take bath in Brahmamuhurta and meditate and worship Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva, that is why crores of devotees reach the Sangam banks of Prayagraj every year in the month of Magh for Kalpavas.
Taking bath with cold water in the winter of Magh month is like a penance. It is considered like dedication to God. After bathing, Arghya is offered to the Sun with river water.
What should one do if one cannot take bath in the river?
Keep these things in mind while bathing in the river |
Take full care of your safety while bathing in the river, because small carelessness in the river can prove fatal. |
Before entering the river, pay attention to the depth and flow of the river. Avoid bathing in places with strong currents. |
Choose a safe place for bathing in the river, such a place where other people bathe, so you can bathe with caution. |
One should take bath only on the river bank, avoid going deep. While descending into the river, walk slowly, if you walk fast there is a risk of your feet slipping. |
One should never bathe in the river alone. One should go for river bath with family members, friends or other people. While bathing in the river, there must be someone around us, so that help can be provided if needed. Take special care of children while bathing in the river. |
Avoid drinking river water while bathing in the river. Keep in mind that river water can cause infection. |
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