What is Vastra Daan and why is it performed at Magh Mela?

Vastra Daan is the donation of clothes and is mentioned in the Padma Purana, Matsya Purana, and Bhavishya Purana as a highly meritorious act, especially during the cold winter months. The scriptures emphasize that covering the nakedness of the needy and providing warmth to those exposed to cold is among the most compassionate forms of charity. At Magh Mela in Prayagraj — which takes place during January-February when Prayagraj experiences cold winters and Kalpavasis (month-long ascetic residents) camp on the sand of the Sangam in tents — Vastra Daan is especially valued. Traditional Vastra Daan items include warm blankets, woolen shawls, dhoti-kurtas for Brahmins, saris for widows and elderly women, and warm clothes for children of poor families. The ritual involves offering the clothes with sankalpa at the Sangam, then distributing them personally or through a trusted organization to genuine recipients. According to the Padma Purana, Vastra Daan benefits seven generations of ancestors and is particularly effective for removing the clothes-related karmic burdens from past lives. The act earns blessings both from the living recipients and from Pitrus (ancestors) pleased by the compassionate deed.