Tue Jan 14 04:33:19 UTC 2025: ## Millions Take the Holy Dip as Kumbh Mela’s First ‘Amrit Snan’ Begins
**Prayagraj, India** – The first royal bath, now officially termed the “Amrit Snan,” of the Kumbh Mela commenced at 6:15 AM on Tuesday, drawing an estimated 15 to 20 million devotees to the Sangam confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers. The event, marking the beginning of the main bathing rituals, saw Naga Sadhus (naked ascetics) arriving at the Sangam, carrying tridents, damarus (drums), and adorned with ash, showcasing their unique traditions and attracting huge crowds.
According to DGP Prashant Kumar, over 10 million people had already taken a holy dip by 7:00 AM. The sheer scale of the event is unprecedented, with pilgrims from over 50 countries present, alongside a massive media presence. The event’s significance is highlighted by the presence of notable figures including Apple co-founder Steve Jobs’ wife, Laurene Powell, and former Union Minister Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti.
The event featured a carefully choreographed schedule for the 13 akharas (religious orders), each allotted 30-40 minutes for their ritual bath. Authorities implemented stringent security measures, deploying 60,000 police and paramilitary personnel, and restricting vehicle entry into Prayagraj. The change from “Shahi Snan” (royal bath) to “Amrit Snan” (immortal bath) reflects a proposal by the akharas themselves.
International participation was substantial, with attendees sharing their experiences. Pinar, a Muslim woman from Turkey, expressed her fulfillment in witnessing the Kumbh Mela firsthand, while a group from Iran described the event as “amazing and inspiring.” Similar sentiments were echoed by visitors from Italy, the Netherlands, New Zealand, and Germany, all highlighting the well-organized nature of the event and its spiritual impact.
The massive gathering required meticulous crowd management. Authorities employed mounted police and strategically placed barricades to control the flow of pilgrims. The entire operation was closely monitored through CCTV cameras and drones, ensuring a peaceful and orderly “Amrit Snan.” The event continued throughout the day with various akharas participating in the holy dip, culminating in a truly spectacular display of faith and devotion.
First Piper 