<span style="color: #222222;">In Haridwar, a large number of devotees from different parts of the country took a holy dip in the river Ganga on the occasion of Maha Shivratri. Today is the first Shahi Snan of the various Sanyasi Akhadas. Har ki Pauri is strictly reserved for the Shahi Snan. Covid 19 protocol is also being observed. Chief Minister Tirath Singh Rawat also reached Haridwar and showered flowers on the sages and saints. More from our correspondent</span><br />'' <span style="color: #222222;"> </span><br />'' <span style="color: #222222;"> </span><br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">More than 22 lakh devotees took a holy dip in river Ganga on the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivratri today. Meanwhile Joona Akhada, Agni Akhada and Avahn Akhada have performed Shahi Snan at Har Ki Paudi. The sages and saints are reaching for Shahi snan in sequence.</span><br />'' <span style="color: #222222;"> </span><br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">Special arrangements have been made in Haridwar as devotees from across the country are expected to flock here for holy dip. The Mahakumbh at Haridwar is happening after 12 years while Ardh Kumbh is held every six years.</span><br />'' <span style="color: #222222;"> </span><br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">The festival is held at Haridwar, Prayagraj, Ujjain, and Nasik every 12 years in the cycle. During the Kumbh Mela, lakhs of people gather to take a holy dip in the river, especially on the auspicious bathing days.</span>