The Mahakumbh 2025, one of the most significant religious events in the world, began on an auspicious note on Makar Sankranti with over 1.60 crore devotees taking the holy dip, or Shahi Snan, at the Sangam in Allahabad. The ceremonial dip between 4 a.m. and noon officially marked the beginning of the grand event that draws millions of pilgrims from across the globe.
Naga Sadhus Lead the Shahi Snan
The ceremony started with the processional of Naga sadhus, venerable ascetics partaking of different akharas (ecclesiastical communities). These sadhus, known for their austere lifestyle, entered the Sangam with their iconic tridents, spears, and swords, while blowing conch shells and tutari (trumpet-like instruments). Their spectacular entrance enchanted the devotees and inaugurated the sacred Amrit Snan, considered the transformation of the river water into the elixir on Makar Sankranti, Mauni Amavasya, and Basant Panchami.
The akharas performed their turn following a pre-agreed sequence (Sri Panchayati Mahanirvani and Sri Shambu Panchayati Atak akharas initiated the schedule). Other important akharas that followed such were Sri Taponidhi Panchayati-Niranjani, Sri Panchdashnam Juna and Udasin Sri Panchayati Nirmal Ani. The ceremony was also enhanced by a shower of flower petals from helicopters, thereby imparting a mitic quality to the already spiritual ambiance.
Historical Significance of Akharas
The history of akharas goes back to the 8th century AD and is usually attributed to Adi Shankaracharya, who created these monastic orders to defend Sanatan Dharma. However, some historians argue that akharas evolved during medieval times as communities of martial monks.
The Nagas sadhus, who represent the central members of these akharas, are famous for their distinctive image—bodies without clothing but covered with ash, dense hair, and a strong personality. Although they increase the colour of the Mahakumbh, the governments have not successfully managed their composure.
Stories from the Mela Grounds
The Mahakumbh is not only a ritualistic event, but also a crucible of rich personal journeys and spiritual journeys.
Middle-aged person from Haryana, Abhay Singh, aka Masani Gorakh Baba, presented his life-changing experience. As a graduate of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay in aerospace engineering, Abhay abandoned his career in pursuit of a richer understanding of life. His trip brought him to Dharamshala, Rishikesh and finally to the Mahakumbh. Life’s trivialities count more than grandiosity, he said, after scrutinizing his spiritual breakthrough.
A godman/sahibified person from Bihar also shared with the investigator that he became a sadhu because after repeated attempts to find a life partner, he gave up. Wearing yellow, the 38-year-old exclaimed, Love is clean, and I still can get married if I love someone.
Nakhun Baba, a 40-year-old sadhu famed for his extremely long finger nails, described his decision to abandon the world, 10 years ago. However, his temper flared when a YouTuber questioned his nails, leading to a minor altercation.
Hindu Rashtra Advocates Gather
During this spiritual escalation, some Hindu organizations and Hindutva organizations have taken advantage of the situation to advance their own purposes. An unsung organization-Hindu Jan Jagriti Samiti-is organizing a meeting in the mela area to strategize the steps to create a Hindu Rashtra in India.
Vishwanath Kulkarni, the head of this group of activists, said, “this is the right time and the right place to raise this issue, when people from all over the world are here”. Vishwa Hindu Parishad and the All India Akhara Parishad have also convened meetings to discuss allied objectives.
Upcoming Highlights and Celestial Significance
The Mahakumbh 2025 holds special significance as it is being celebrated after 12 years, with seers claiming that the celestial alignments occurring this year happen only once in 144 years, making the event even more auspicious.
The next Shahi Snan is fixed on Mauni Amavasya, 29 January, and the Mahakumbh will run up to 26 February and end on Maha Shivratri.
A Grand Religious Spectacle
The Mahakumbh is not only a religious phenomenon, but a festival of India’s cultural history and spirituality. With millions of devotees, sadhus, and spiritual seekers converging at the Sangam, the event underscores the timeless appeal of faith and devotion. The Uttar Pradesh government, led by the Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, did not spare any effort towards the successful arrangement of this great spectacle that is going to solidify India’s place as a country with various spiritual strands.
As the Mahakumbh progresses, the air in Allahabad remains charged with devotion, faith, and the timeless quest for spiritual awakening.
“Stay updated with the latest news and insights – follow us at YPBB News on X for real-time updates and exclusive stories!”
