Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) [India]: The grand Maha Kumbh 2025 commenced with the first Amrit Snan on the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti. Naga sadhus, adorned in ash and hailing from their Himalayan abodes, proceeded toward the sacred Triveni Sangam—the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mystical Saraswati rivers—for the holy dip.
The vibrant and spiritual energy of the event was palpable as the Sadhus of Mahanirvani Panchayati Akhada and Anand Akhada began the day with their holy bath. Swami Chidambaranand, Mahamandaleshwar of Mahanirvani Akhada, reflected on the cultural pride and unity witnessed during the Kumbh:
“We experience the grandeur of Indian civilisation. Crores of people are witnessing the pride of our culture. There is joy and excitement everywhere. People have forgotten about the cold and have been waiting since 2 am to see the saints. Those who criticize our religion should come here and witness the unity—there are no caste divisions here, only Hindus and Hindu culture,” said Swami Chidambaranand.
Kumar Swami Ji Maharaj from Anand Akhada added, “There is nothing greater than Maha Kumbh. Those who come here are truly fortunate. This sacred gathering brings peace and joy, embodying the vision of our saints and shastras for a peaceful world. I bow down to our earth, Lord Shiva, and our seers for this divine experience.”
The 13 Akhadas of Sanatan Dharma, divided into Sanyasi (Shaivite), Bairagi (Vaishnav), and Udaseen groups, are participating in the ritualistic baths. The Shaivite akhadas include Juna Akhada, Niranjani Akhada, Atal Akhada, Mahanirvani Akhada, Agni Akhada, Aavahan Akhada, and Anand Akhada.
According to DGP Uttar Pradesh Prashant Kumar, over 10 million devotees have taken the holy dip so far. Speaking to ANI, Kumar said, “As of 7 AM, 98.2 lakh people had taken the holy bath, and the count has likely crossed one crore now. This is the first Amrit Snan, and Akhadas like Juna, Awahan, and Agni will soon follow suit.”
Maha Kumbh is a globally significant religious congregation held every 12 years at one of four sacred locations in India. Maha Kumbh 2025, a Poorna Kumbh, will continue until February 26, 2025. Key ritual dates include:
- January 14 (Makar Sankranti – First Shahi Snan)
- January 29 (Mauni Amavasya – Second Shahi Snan)
- February 3 (Basant Panchami – Third Shahi Snan)
- February 12 (Maghi Purnima)
- February 26 (Maha Shivaratri).