The Kumbh Mela holds great significance in Sanatan Dharma, symbolizing spiritual awakening and divine energy. This year, the Mahakumbh Mela will take place in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26, 2025 (Mahashivratri). Divided into three types—Ardhakumbh, Purnakumbh, and Mahakumbh—the Kumbh Mela is an iconic religious gathering. Let’s explore the differences between these types and the special features of this year’s Mahakumbh.
What are Ardhakumbh, Purnakumbh, and Mahakumbh?
- Ardhakumbh Mela: Held every six years, it is organized only in Prayagraj and Haridwar.
- Purnakumbh Mela: Held every 12 years at the confluence (Sangam) in Prayagraj, it is celebrated on a grand scale.
- Mahakumbh Mela: Occurs once every 144 years, after 12 Purnakumbh gatherings in Prayagraj, making it a rare and extraordinary event.
How is the Venue Decided?
The location of the Kumbh Mela is determined by the celestial alignment of the Sun, Moon, and Jupiter:
- Prayagraj: When the Sun and Moon are in Capricorn and Jupiter is in Taurus.
- Haridwar: When the Sun is in Aries and Jupiter is in Aquarius.
- Ujjain: When both the Sun and Jupiter are in Leo.
- Nashik: When the Sun is in Leo and Jupiter is in Leo or Cancer.
Key Dates for Royal Baths (Shahi Snan) at Mahakumbh 2025
Six Shahi Snans will be the spiritual highlights of Mahakumbh 2025:
- Pausha Purnima: January 13, 2025
- Makar Sankranti: January 14, 2025
- Mauni Amavasya: January 29, 2025
- Basant Panchami: February 3, 2025
- Maghi Purnima: February 12, 2025
- Mahashivratri: February 26, 2025
Creation of 12 Jyotirlingas with 5.5 Crore Rudraksh Beads
This year, 12 Jyotirlingas will be crafted using 5.5 crore Rudraksha beads, accompanied by 11,000 tridents and damrus. Each Jyotirlinga will be 9 feet wide and 11 feet tall, making it a stunning centerpiece for devotees. These Jyotirlingas are being constructed in the Mahakumbh Sector 6 camp at Sant Paramhans Ashram, located near the Nagavasuki Temple in Prayagraj.
Global Contribution to the Unique Design
Rudraksha beads sourced from Nepal and Malaysia are being used for this project. The tridents will be painted in vibrant white, black, yellow, and red hues. The construction of these Jyotirlingas will be completed by January 12, 2025, allowing devotees to worship and admire them from January 13 to February 26.
Prayers for World Peace and Unity
According to Brahmachari Mauni Baba, the head of Sant Paramhans Ashram, the 12 Jyotirlingas symbolize Sanatan Dharma’s eternal cultural heritage and global harmony. Through these sacred installations, prayers will be offered for the welfare of Akhand Bharat (undivided India) and the world.
A Celebration of Sanatan Culture
Mahakumbh is not merely a religious event but a living testament to the traditions and values of Sanatan Dharma. The 2025 Mahakumbh will serve as a beacon of faith and devotion, drawing millions of pilgrims and spiritual seekers from across the globe to the sacred sands of Prayagraj’s Sangam.