On the occasion of Makar Sankranti, millions of pilgrims gathered at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj to partake in the first ‘Amrit Snan’ of the Mahakumbh 2025 on Tuesday. The Naga Sadhus, monks from 13 different akharas, were the first to take the holy dip, marking the significance of this sacred ritual, followed by the general public. This ‘Amrit Snan’ is considered the most important event of the Maha Kumbh Mela, with Naga Sadhus receiving the first opportunity to bathe in the holy waters.
The 13 akharas are divided into three main groups: Udaseen, Bairagi (Vaishnav), and Sanyasi (Shaivite). Within these groups, the Bairagi Akharas include Nirmohi, Digambar Ani, and Nirvani Ani; the two Udaseen Akharas are Naya and Bada; and the Nirmala Akhara. The Shaivite Akharas are Mahanirvani, Atal, Niranjani, Anand, Bhairav, Awahan, and Agni.
Why Do Naga Sadhus Take the First Sacred Dip?
The tradition of Naga Sadhus leading the ‘Amrit Snan’ has deep religious roots, with history tracing back to the eighth century. Sadhus from different akharas have gathered at Prayagraj for centuries to perform this sacred dip. The order of who bathes first, which later became a source of disputes, was formalized over time. The Mahakumbh Mela, celebrated at four places – Prayagraj, Ujjain, Haridwar, and Nashik – marks the locations where drops of Amrit (nectar) are believed to have fallen during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean) by the gods and demons.
Naga Sadhus, who are considered the disciples of Lord Shiva, are given the privilege of the first bath due to their profound penance and spiritual connection to Shiva. This longstanding custom highlights the spiritual vitality of the Naga Sadhus and their deep religious significance. It is believed that the tradition was solidified by the saints after Adi Shankaracharya organized a group to protect the dharma. As followers of Lord Shiva, the Naga Sadhus were entrusted with this honor, and the practice continues to this day.
The Procession and Rituals of the ‘Amrit Snan’
The Amrit Snan is not just a religious practice but a meticulously organized event. The Naga Sadhus, along with other akhara officials, follow a set order as they head towards the holy waters. The procession is led by the Acharya Mahamandaleshwar of the Akhara’s chariot, followed by the Shri Mahant, Mahant, Kotwal, Thanapati, and other Akhara officials. Each participant walks in an order based on their rank, ensuring the ceremonial bath is performed with due respect and adherence to tradition.
The path of the procession is carefully planned by the authorities, and devotees line the roads on either side, paying their respects by touching their foreheads to the dust of the saints’ feet as they pass.
Upcoming ‘Amrit Snans’ at Mahakumbh 2025
The Mahakumbh 2025 will witness five significant ‘Amrit Snans’ throughout the festival, each marking a vital spiritual occasion. The dates for these sacred baths are as follows:
Makar Sankranti – January 14
Mauni Amavasya – January 29
Basant Panchmi – February 3
Maghi Purnima – February 12
Maha Shivratri – February 26
These dates are crucial for devotees seeking to purify themselves and attain spiritual merit, making the Mahakumbh Mela one of the largest and most revered religious gatherings in the world.
