Maha Kumbh 2025: First 'Amrit Snan' Marks Auspicious Start on Makar Sankranti
The Maha Kumbh 2025 began with the sacred 'Amrit Snan' on Makar Sankranti as sadhus from all the akharas took a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam, the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mystical Saraswati rivers. This spiritual tradition marks the beginning of one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.
Thirteen akharas participating in the ceremony were classified as Sanyasi (Shaivite), Bairagi (Vaishnav), and Udaseen. Among these, prominent Shaivite akharas were Shree Panch Dashnam Juna Akhada, Shree Panchayati Akhada Niranjani, and Shree Panchayati Akhada Mahanirvani, to name a few.
Kumar Swami Ji Maharaj of Anand Akhara said the importance of the festival, "Maha Kumbh is matchless. The ones who get a chance are really blessed. It brings serenity and bliss to see this divine congregation. Our saints and scriptures have always prayed for the world's peace. I offer my respects to the great saints, our holy books, and Lord Shiva for this holy day".
Mahamandleshwar Swami Gyan Puri of Mahanirvana Akhara observed, "Despite the huge population, everything moves smoothly. Each person finds his place for a holy dip. It is an unbelievable spectacle that Kumbh Mela alone offers".
Authorities ensured the successful completion of the event. SSP Kumbh Mela, Rajesh Dwivedi observed, "All akharas are moving to 'Amrit Snan'. Police, PAC, horse mounted police and para-military personnel are deployed at all akhara routes reaching the bathing spot".
The devotional atmosphere resonated with bhajans as foreign devotees from across the globe joined in singing 'Om Jai Jagdish Hare' and 'Mahishasura Mardini Stotram.' A devotee from Milan, Italy, attending her sixth Kumbh, expressed her elation: "India has always held a special place in my heart, and being part of the Kumbh Mela is a profound experience". Similarly, a devotee from Nepal shared her joy in participating for the first time.
The Maha Kumbh is the largest spiritual congregation in the world, held every 12 years at four different locations. The 2025 event continues until February 26, with the following important dates:
- 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
It will, in turn, strengthen its legacy as a unifying spiritual experience, bringing millions of devotees to the site from all corners of the globe.
