The Gangasagar Mela began on Thursday and will continue until January 17. The district administration is scheduled to hold another official programme at the mela office on Saturday. Pilgrims have already started arriving in large numbers, with most devotees planning to take the holy dip on Makar Sankranti on January 14. In the absence of a Kumbh Mela this year, the administration expects more than one crore pilgrims to attend the Gangasagar Mela.
Also Read | Cold wave eases briefly in Kolkata as minimum touches 12.1°C, winter chill to continue
Amid the preparations and swelling crowds, a unique development has drawn attention at the mela grounds. A Naga sadhu seated at the sadhus’ akhara near the Kapilmuni Temple has begun accepting offerings through online payment. The 60-year-old Naga sadhu, Omkhchaagari, has come to be known among pilgrims as “PhonePe Baba” for combining digital payments with a traditional ascetic lifestyle.
Omkhchaagari Naga Baba arrived at Gangasagar from Haridwar in early December, as he does every year. This year, however, he introduced a new system at his akhara. About two weeks ago, he opened a bank account and set up a QR code and scanner to allow devotees to make digital offerings. According to him, many pilgrims travel long distances by train and bus and often do not carry enough cash or small change, which prompted the move.
Also Read | Devastating fire at Gangasagar Mela destroys multiple temporary shelters, raises safety concerns
The sadhu has also installed a sound box connected to the scanner. Whenever an offering is made online, the device announces the amount in Hindi, allowing him to know instantly. He said the arrangement is meant solely for the convenience of devotees and that he accepts whatever amount people choose to offer willingly.
The initiative has sparked interest among sadhus from neighbouring akharas as well. Naga sadhu Tirshanath said others are also considering adopting online payment methods for offerings at the mela.
