Maha Kumbh Nagar, February 3 : The world’s largest spiritual gathering, Maha Kumbh 2025, witnessed its third and final Amrit Snan (holy dip) on Basant Panchami at 4:45 AM at the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers in Prayagraj. The ritual began with great grandeur as saints and ascetics from various Akharas (Hindu monastic orders) marched towards the Triveni Sangam, performing their traditional customs.
The Shri Panchayati Akhara Mahanirvani and Atal Akhara were the first to take the holy dip at 4:45 AM. The saints, seated on majestic chariots adorned with flags and musical instruments, proceeded towards the sacred waters, accompanied by devotees chanting “Har Har Mahadev” and “Ganga Maiya Ki Jai.” The energy in the atmosphere was electrifying as the Naga Sadhus (naked ascetics) performed acrobatics, danced, and chanted fervently, creating a divine ambiance.
Sacred Rituals of Amrit Snan: The Order of Akharas
In accordance with traditional practices, 13 Akharas are participating in the Amrit Snan in a pre-determined sequence. The first holy dip of Maha Kumbh 2025 took place on Makar Sankranti, marking the beginning of the grand event.
The bathing schedule for the Akharas on Basant Panchami is as follows:
- 4:00 AM – Shri Panchayati Akhara Mahanirvani and Shri Shambhu Panchayati Atal Akhara
- Departure from camp: 4:00 AM
- Arrival at Triveni Sangam: 5:00 AM
- Bathing duration: 40 minutes
- Return to camps: 6:40 AM
- 4:50 AM – Shri Taponidhi Panchayati Niranjani Akhara and Shri Panchayati Anand Akhara
- Departure from camp: 4:50 AM
- Arrival at Sangam: 5:50 AM
- Bathing duration: 40 minutes
- 5:45 AM – Shri Panch Dashnam Juna Akhara, Shri Panch Dashnam Avahan Akhara, and Shri Panchagni Akhara
- Departure from camp: 5:45 AM
- Arrival at Sangam: 6:45 AM
- Bathing duration: 40 minutes
- 8:25 AM – Shri Panch Nirvani Ani Akhara
- Departure from camp: 8:25 AM
- Arrival at Sangam: 9:25 AM
- Bathing duration: 30 minutes
- 9:05 AM – Shri Panch Digambar Ani Akhara
- Departure from camp: 9:05 AM
- Arrival at Sangam: 10:05 AM
- Bathing duration: 50 minutes
- 10:05 AM – Shri Panch Nirmohi Ani Akhara
- Departure from camp: 10:05 AM
- Arrival at Sangam: 11:05 AM
- Bathing duration: 30 minutes
- 11:00 AM – Shri Panchayati Naya Udasin Akhara
- Departure from camp: 11:00 AM
- Arrival at Sangam: 12:00 PM
- Bathing duration: 55 minutes
- 12:05 PM – Shri Panchayati Bada Udasin Nirvan Akhara
- Departure from camp: 12:05 PM
- Arrival at Sangam: 1:05 PM
- Bathing duration: 60 minutes
- 1:25 PM – Shri Panchayati Nirmal Akhara
- Departure from camp: 1:25 PM
- Arrival at Sangam: 2:25 PM
- Bathing duration: 40 minutes
Devotees Witness the Divine Procession
Thousands of devotees lined up to witness the spiritual grandeur of the Akharas. The sight of saints clad in saffron robes, Naga Sadhus smeared with ash, and the rhythmic beats of drums and conch shells made the experience truly mesmerizing. As the processions moved towards the holy waters, the chants of “Har Har Mahadev” echoed through the air, filling the surroundings with an aura of divinity.
Many devotees believe that taking a dip during the Amrit Snan washes away sins and grants liberation from the cycle of birth and death. The ritual is considered to be one of the most auspicious events in Hinduism, attracting millions of pilgrims from across the globe.
Heightened Security Measures for Amrit Snan
Following the tragic stampede on Mouni Amavasya (January 29), where 30 devotees lost their lives, the Maha Kumbh administration has taken strict precautionary measures to ensure smooth execution of the third Amrit Snan.
- One-Way Route System: To manage the large crowds efficiently, a one-way traffic system has been implemented for pilgrims heading towards the Triveni Sangam.
- Increased Police Deployment: Additional security personnel, barricades, and crowd control measures have been put in place to prevent overcrowding at the bathing ghats.
- Enhanced Surveillance: CCTV cameras have been installed at all sensitive locations to monitor crowd movement.
- Dedicated Patrol Units: 15 motorcycle patrol teams have been deployed to maintain law and order.
- Quick Response Teams (QRTs): 56 QRT teams are stationed at key points to handle emergencies effectively.
To ensure the safety of devotees, senior officers, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), and Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) are actively monitoring the event. Efforts are being made to ensure that pilgrims reach the ghats without any difficulties and have a smooth and safe spiritual experience.
A Divine Conclusion to Maha Kumbh 2025
With the successful execution of the third Amrit Snan, the Maha Kumbh 2025 is nearing its spiritual culmination. Millions of devotees continue to participate in the holy rituals, prayers, and spiritual discourses, making this a truly historical and divine event.
As the grand spectacle unfolds, the Maha Kumbh remains a testament to India’s rich spiritual heritage and timeless traditions. Devotees from all walks of life come together in unity and devotion, reaffirming the power of faith, culture, and sacred rituals.
Maha Kumbh 2025: The Third and Final Amrit Snan Begins on Basant Panchami
