Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj witnessed a wave of devotion as over 1 crore devotees gathered at the Triveni Sangam on Makar Sankranti for the first Amrit Snan, marking a grand beginning to this world-famous religious congregation. The iconic event saw the participation of 13 akharas, each following a meticulously planned sequence for the sacred dip.
The Sacred Ritual Of Amrit Snan
The Amrit Snan, also referred to as the Shahi Snan, is one of the most significant rituals of the Maha Kumbh Mela. On this auspicious day, devotees believe that taking a dip in the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers cleanses sins and bestows spiritual liberation.
As early as dawn, the chants of “Har Har Gange” echoed through the ghats, creating a spiritually charged atmosphere. Smeared with ash, the Naga Sadhus—representing one of the 13 akharas—led the bathing procession, marking the beginning of the ritual during the sacred Brahma Muhurta.
Akhara Bathing Sequence For Amrit Snan
The 13 akharas were allotted specific time slots for their sacred dip to ensure smooth coordination. The bathing schedule was organized as follows:
- Sanyasi Akharas
- Shri Panchayati Akhara Mahanirvani and Shri Shambhu Panchayati Atal Akhara were the first to bathe, each given 40 minutes for the ritual.
- Following them were Shri Taponidhi Panchayati Shri Niranjani Akhara and Shri Panchayati Akhara Anand, who gracefully performed their sacred dips.
- Shri Panchdashnam Juna Akhara, Shri Panchdashnam Aawahan Akhara, and Shri Panchagni Akhara represented the final Sanyasi groups in the ritual.
- Bairagi Akharas
- All India Shri Panch Nirmohi Ani Akhara began its procession at 9:40 am, reached the ghat by 10:40 am, and concluded its bath within 30 minutes.
- All India Shri Panch Nirvani Ani Akhara followed at 11:20 am and completed its dip by 12:50 pm.
- Udasin Akharas
- The Udasin Akharas started their processions from 12:15 pm onward. Shri Panchayati Akhara Naya Udasin and Nirvana Akhara performed their dips sequentially, with Shri Panchayati Nirmal Akhara being the last to conclude the ritual.
Key Snan Dates For Maha Kumbh Mela 2025
Devotees planning their visit to the Maha Kumbh Mela can mark the following significant bathing dates:
- January 14 (Makar Sankranti): First Amrit Snan
- January 29 (Mauni Amavasya): Second Snan
- February 3 (Basant Panchami): Third Snan
- February 12 (Maghi Purnima): Fourth Snan
- February 26 (Maha Shivaratri): Final Snan
Devotion Beyond Borders
The Maha Kumbh Mela attracts pilgrims from across the globe, making it a melting pot of cultures and spirituality. This year, the event welcomed over 1.5 crore people on the occasion of Paush Purnima, with the numbers expected to multiply as the festival progresses.
Among the devotees were international visitors like Sarah from the UK, who described the experience as “transformative,” and Carlos, a yoga teacher from Spain, who marveled at the scale of the event. For Claudia from Poland, witnessing the procession of aghoris was an unforgettable spectacle.
Advanced Measures For Crowd Management
With an anticipated gathering of millions, the Maha Kumbh Mela administration implemented advanced measures for crowd control and safety:
- Thermal Imaging: Nighttime monitoring through thermal imaging systems ensured safety and coordination.
- Drone Surveillance: Drones captured real-time visuals during the day for efficient crowd management.
- Enhanced Security: A massive deployment of police and volunteers managed the crowd, while medical units provided assistance to pilgrims in need.
A Testament To Eternal Faith
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath described the Maha Kumbh Mela as a “living form of eternal culture and faith.” He congratulated the millions of devotees who participated in the first Amrit Snan and lauded the administration for seamlessly organizing such a massive event.
As the festival continues till February 26, devotees, ascetics, and spiritual leaders will gather at the Sangam, contributing to the world’s largest religious congregation. For many, the Maha Kumbh Mela represents not just a ritual but an eternal journey of faith and devotion.