Prayagraj:
In the early hours of January 14, 2025, the city of Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh witnessed an unprecedented gathering of devotees as the Maha Kumbh Mela, one of the world’s largest religious congregations, commenced with the first ‘Amrit Snan’ on the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti. This 45-day event, which will continue until February 26, 2025, has drawn millions of pilgrims from across the globe.
The Maha Kumbh Mela administration has meticulously planned the sequence of Amrit Snan for the 13 Akharas, ensuring strict adherence to traditional customs. Each Akhara has been informed of its designated time and sequence, as outlined in a recent press release.
Mahant Acharya Devendra Singh Shastri, Secretary of Panchayati Akhara Nirmal, confirmed that the Akharas have received detailed information about the dates, sequences, and timings of the Amrit Snan. The first to take the sacred dip will be Shri Panchayati Akhara Mahanirvani and Shri Shambhu Panchayati Atal Akhara, departing from their camp at 5:15 AM and reaching the ghat by 6:15 AM. They have been allocated 40 minutes for the bathing ritual.
Following them will be Shri Taponidhi Panchayati Shri Niranjani Akhara and Shri Panchayati Akhara Anand. The three Sanyasi Akharas, including Shri Panchdashnam Juna Akhara, Shri Panchdashnam Aawahan Akhara, and Shri Panchagni Akhara, will take their turn next.
Among the Bairagi Akharas, All India Shri Panch Nirmohi Ani Akhara will be the first to start from the camp at 9:40 AM, while All India Shri Panch Nirvani Ani Akhara will follow at 11:20 AM. The Udasin Akharas, including Udasin Shri Panchayati Naya Udasin Akhara and Shri Panchayati Akhara Naya Udasin Nirvana, will take their turns later in the day. Shri Panchayati Nirmal Akhara will be the last to participate in the Amrit Snan.
The Maha Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years, is a significant religious event that attracts millions. Key ‘snan’ dates for this year’s event include January 29 (Mauni Amavasya – Second Shahi Snan), February 3 (Basant Panchami – Third Shahi Snan), February 12 (Maghi Purnima), and February 26 (Maha Shivaratri).
