Tight security measures have been put in place in Sri Muktsar Sahib, Punjab, as preparations intensify for the annual Maghi Mela, officials confirmed on Tuesday. Punjab’s Public Relations Officer stated that the arrangements were reviewed by Special Director General of Police (Law and Order) Arpit Shukla, who personally assessed the preparedness of local authorities ahead of the major religious event.

According to the administration, around 6,000 police personnel have been deployed across the city to maintain law and order during the festival. The area has been divided into seven separate security zones, while drone surveillance is being used to monitor crowd movement and sensitive locations. Residents and visitors have also been encouraged to remain vigilant and immediately inform the police helpline if they notice anything suspicious. The Maghi Mela, as noted on the Ministry of Tourism’s official platform, is observed every year in January — during the month of Magh as per the Nanakshahi calendar, a system created by Sikh scholar Pal Singh Purewal to replace the traditional Bikrami calendar and standardize the dates of Sikh religious observances.

As per information from the Sri Muktsar Sahib administration, the main gathering takes place the day after Lohri, when devotees assemble in large numbers to honor the courage and sacrifice of the Forty Muktas. These warriors laid down their lives in the historic Battle of Khidrana, fought in defense of the Tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Pilgrims mark the occasion by taking a holy dip in the sacred tank, while the entire town transforms into a vibrant center of devotion and celebration. Adding to the cultural significance of the event, a massive cattle fair is organized in Lambi Dhab village, where prized livestock and the region’s renowned horse breeds are displayed, drawing visitors from across Punjab.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.