The Maha Kumbh Mela is currently taking place in Prayagraj. When 12 Purna Kumbhs occur, the event is elevated to a Maha Kumbh, which happens once in 144 years. This grand religious gathering attracts millions of devotees from across the world, including the revered Naga Sadhus. The Maha Kumbh began on January 13, 2025, and will conclude on February 26, 2025 (Mahashivratri).
The Naga Sadhus of different Akhadas are the main attraction of the Maha Kumbh. Their unique processions and rituals during the sacred Amrit Snan create a mesmerizing spectacle. The Kumbh Mela holds immense significance, especially due to the Amrit Snan, during which devotees take a holy dip in the sacred Ganges River. The festival also showcases Naga Sadhus covered in ash, spiritual discourses by scholars, Akhada feasts, and deep-rooted yogic traditions.
Amrit Snan Dates in February
1. Basant Panchami – February 3, 2025
The third and final Amrit Snan of the Maha Kumbh will take place on Basant Panchami. While every day of the Maha Kumbh is auspicious for bathing in the Ganga, the Amrit Snan is considered the most significant. On this day, Naga Sadhus and saints take out grand processions before immersing themselves in the holy Sangam waters. According to Hindu beliefs, taking a dip during the Amrit Snan is highly meritorious and is said to bestow blessings equivalent to performing a thousand Ashwamedha Yagnas.
2. Magh Purnima – February 12, 2025
The second Amrit Snan of Maha Kumbh will be observed on Magh Purnima. This day is considered highly auspicious, and taking a dip in the Sangam on this occasion is believed to grant moksha (liberation) and cleanse all sins.
3. Mahashivratri – February 26, 2025
The final Amrit Snan of Maha Kumbh will take place on Mahashivratri. Devotees and Naga Sadhus will gather in large numbers for a holy bath in the Ganges. Mahashivratri holds special importance in Hinduism, and bathing on this day is believed to provide immense spiritual benefits.
Significance of Amrit Snan
The Amrit Snan holds profound significance in Hinduism. As per religious beliefs, taking a dip in the Ganga during this sacred bath helps devotees achieve spiritual purification and liberation from sins.
- Amrit Snan is believed to remove ancestral (Pitru) doshas.
- It enhances spiritual energy and purification.
- While bathing in the Kumbh Mela on any day is auspicious, the Amrit Snan is said to grant immortality.
The Maha Kumbh Mela is not just a religious gathering but a spiritual journey of self-purification and divine enlightenment.