Mahakumbh Mela 2025: History, Dates and Significance
Mahakumbh Mela is India’s most significant religious event, held every 12 years. In 2025, it will be held in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. The fair will start on 13 January 2025 and run until 26 February 2025.
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History of Mahakumbh:
The tradition of Mahakumbh Mela has been going on since ancient times. According to mythology, during the churning of the ocean, a few drops of nectar from the Amrit Kalash fell on the earth at four places: Haridwar, Prayagraj, Nashik and Ujjain. Kumbh Mela is organized at these places. Mahakumbh is organized at each place at an interval of 12 years.
Important dates of Mahakumbh 2025:
- Paush Purnima: 13 January 2025
- Makar Sankranti: 14 January 2025
- Mauni Amavasya: 29 January 2025
- Basant Panchami: 3 February 2025
- Maghi Purnima: 12 February 2025
- Mahashivratri: 26 February 2025
On these dates, special bathing is organized, which is called ‘Shahi Snan’. During these days, lakhs of devotees earn virtue by bathing in Sangam.
Importance of Mahakumbh:
Mahakumbh fair has special significance in Hinduism. It is believed that bathing in Sangam during this time liberates one from all sins and attains salvation. This fair is an important occasion for the meeting of saints, Naga sadhus and devotees, where religious discourses, meditation and cultural programs are organized.
Why should you visit Mahakumbh 2025 in Prayagraj?
- Spiritual experience: The Mahakumbh Mela is an occasion to experience spiritual peace by bathing in Sangam with millions of devotees.
- Meeting with saints: Here, you can meet the saints of different Akharas and benefit from their knowledge and experience.
- Cultural programs: Various cultural programs, discourses, and bhajan-kirtan are organized during the fair to present a glimpse of Indian culture.
- Local cuisine: The fair offers a variety of local cuisines, reflecting the rich food culture of Uttar Pradesh.
Importance of Shahi Snan
Some special dates during the Maha Kumbh Mela are extremely important from a religious point of view. On these dates, the saints of various Akharas take out grand processions with their disciples and participate in a ritual called ‘Shahi Snan’, which marks the beginning of the Kumbh Mela. Shahi Snan is the main attraction of the Kumbh Mela, for which special arrangements are made. On this occasion, devotees receive the blessings of the virtuous deeds and profound knowledge of the saints who take the Shahi Snan.
Dates and significance of Shahi Snan
The following are the dates of Shahi Snan in Mahakumbh 2025:
- 14 January 2025: Makar Sankranti (First Shahi Snan)
- 29 January 2025: Mauni Amavasya (Second Shahi Snan)
- 3 February 2025: Vasant Panchami (Third Shahi Snan)
On these dates, the saints of the Akhadas reach the Sangam coast in a grand procession with their followers and Naga sadhus. This procession is called ‘Peshwai’, and horses, elephants, bands, and chariots are used, giving royal grandeur to this religious event.
Role of Naga Sadhus
Naga Sadhus are a major section of Akhadas who play a special role in the Shahi Snan of Kumbh Mela. These sadhus remain naked and apply ash to their bodies. They are known for their difficult penance and restraint, and their presence makes the royal bath even more impressive.
The religious significance of Shahi Snan
According to Hindu Sanatan belief, snan in holy rivers during the Kumbh Mela destroys sins and leads to salvation. According to religious traditions and scriptures, the Shahi Snan holds special significance for sadhus and saints and Naga sadhus. It is also considered a symbol of ‘divinity’ attainment and salvation.
Peshwai: Grand entry of Akharas
Peshwai is taken to reach the place on the Sangam bank where the Akharas are settled and the sadhus and saints live during the Kumbh Mela. This happens at the time of the sadhus and saints’ entry into the fair. A grand procession of Akharas, sadhus, and saints is taken to enter the fair. This can be called the official entry of the Akharas.
Process of Shahi Snan
The Shahi Snan is conducted according to specific rules. The dates of bathing are determined according to the Panchang. Every Akhara takes a bath at Sangam Bank according to its fixed turn. First, Naga Sadhus and prominent saints take a bath, which is called ‘Pratham Snan Adhikar’. After this, other Akharas and devotees take a bath.
Preparation for Mahakumbh 2025:
- Accommodation: Lakhs of devotees visit Prayagraj during the fair, so advance booking is necessary. The government and private institutions arrange tent cities, Dharamshalas, and hotels.
- Transportation: Prayagraj is well connected by rail, road and air. Special trains and buses are run during the fair. It is advisable to plan the trip in advance.
- Health and Safety: Special arrangements are made for health services in the fair. Still, keep your medicines with you and be cautious in crowded places.
Mahakumbh Mela 2025 is an occasion to witness a unique confluence of Indian culture, religion, and faith. It is a must-experience once in a lifetime.
