The Royal Bath at the Maha Kumbh will take place on Makar Sankranti. If you’re planning to bathe at the Kumbh during this time, it’s essential to understand the process of Achaman (purification), how many dips to take, and whose names to chant during the bath.
For a sacred bath at the Kumbh, it is recommended to bathe early in the morning during Brahma Muhurat. Saints bathe first, followed by the general public. Before taking a dip, one should perform Achaman.
How to Perform Achaman: It is believed that performing Achaman enhances the results of your prayer. Achaman purifies the body. It should be done three times. While doing Achaman, your face should always face north, northeast, or east. This signifies that you are now spiritually cleansed and ready for the sacred bath. Using your fingers, concentrate and sip pure water three times, silently.
After performing Achaman, you should take a dip in the Ganga. It is believed that your first dip should be dedicated to your parents, ancestors, and guru, followed by one for the welfare of the world and finally, one for yourself. You should dip five times in total, each time taking a deep breath and holding your nose while chanting the names of your parents, ancestors, and guru.
After bathing in the Ganga, it is customary to perform a donation. It is advised to donate according to your capacity. If donating, secret charity is considered more auspicious. Try to ensure that your other hand doesn’t know what you’re donating.