Mon Jan 13 11:02:38 UTC 2025: **Prayagraj’s Mahakumbh 2025 Begins; Holy Dip for Sadhus First**

PRAYAGRAJ, INDIA – The Mahakumbh Mela, a massive Hindu pilgrimage, commenced in Prayagraj today and will continue for 45 days, culminating on February 26th with the final Shahi Snan (royal bath) on Maha Shivratri. This year’s Kumbh Mela features six Shahi Snans, with the first taking place today on Paush Purnima. Millions of sadhus (holy men) and devotees are expected to participate throughout the event.

The Mahakumbh is considered sacred, with many believing the river water gains purifying qualities during this time. The ritual bath is believed to cleanse sins and grant salvation (moksha).

A key aspect of the Shahi Snan is the priority given to sadhus. The timing of these royal baths is determined astrologically, and tradition dictates that ascetics, who have renounced worldly possessions and live in the Himalayas, are the first to take the dip. Their bath is accompanied by mantras, conch shells, and offerings, creating a spiritually charged atmosphere. Only after the sadhus have completed their ritual do ordinary pilgrims take the sacred bath.

The six Shahi Snans are scheduled for:

* January 13th, 2025 (Lohri)
* January 14th, 2025 (Makar Sankranti)
* January 29th, 2025 (Mauni Amavasya)
* February 2nd, 2025 (Vasant Panchami)
* February 12th, 2025 (Magha Purnima)
* February 26th, 2025 (Maha Shivratri)

Three of these are designated “Amrit Snans” (immortal baths):

* January 14th, 2025 (Makar Sankranti)
* January 29th, 2025 (Mauni Amavasya)
* February 2nd, 2025 (Vasant Panchami)

Beyond the religious ceremonies, the Mahakumbh Mela also features daily Ganga Aarti (river worship) in the evenings, along with recitations of the Ramayana and Mahabharata along the riverbanks.

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