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Kumbh Mela 2025: Learn about the holy customs of the Kumbh Mela, such as Pind Daan and Shahi Snan. Also, know the meaning and significance of these Hindu rites.
Kumbh Mela 2025: The first Shahi Snan, celebrated on Makar Sankranti, will take place on January 14. (Image: Shutterstock)
Kumbh Mela 2025: The Maha Kumbh Mela attracts millions of devotees, pilgrims and spiritual seekers from all across India and beyond, making it one of the most prestigious and magnificent religious events. Once every twelve years, this legendary event is held at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, where the holy rivers Saraswati, Yamuna and Ganga meet.
The upcoming Maha Kumbh Mela will begin on January 13, 2025, with the Paush Purnima Snan and end on February 26 with the celebration of Maha Shivratri.
In addition to being a celebration, the Kumbh Mela offers a chance for spiritual purification, atonement and the pursuit of Moksha, or freedom from the cycle of birth and death. Certain rituals are quite important at this big event. Every participant should see and take part in some of these to fully appreciate the spiritual essence of the Kumbh Mela.
You cannot afford to skip any of these sacred Maha Kumbh Mela rituals:
Paush Purnima Snan on January 13, 2025
The first ritual bath of the Maha Kumbh Mela, the Paush Purnima Snan, marks the beginning of the celebration. To bathe in the holy waters of the Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati rivers, devotees assemble at the Triveni Sangam.
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The bath brings spiritual serenity and purges the soul of sin. The Paush Purnima initiates this great occasion and establishes the mood for the subsequent religious rites.
First Shahi Snan – Makar Sankranti on January 14, 2025
One of the highlights of the Kumbh Mela is the first Shahi Snan, celebrated on Makar Sankranti. Thousands of pilgrims and sadhus (holy men) immerse themselves in the confluence of the three rivers on this day.
It is one of the most important bathing days since it is thought that bathing on Makar Sankranti cleanses the body and soul. Devotees can use this time to ask for blessings for a successful year.
Second Shahi Snan – Mauni Amavasya on January 29, 2025
During the Kumbh Mela, Mauni Amavasya is regarded as the most auspicious day. The second Shahi Snan is celebrated on this day when devotees bathe at the Triveni Sangam while fasting and practising silence (Maun).
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On this day, the sacred rivers’ waters are thought to be particularly strong, purging all sins and granting spiritual freedom. As thousands of people assemble to watch and take part in the bath, the atmosphere is infused with devotion.
Third Shahi Snan – Basant Panchami on February 3, 2025
The third Shahi Snan is held on Basant Panchami. It is commemorated as the start of spring, a time of rebirth and renewal. The goddess of knowledge, Saraswati, is also worshipped during the festival.
In an attempt to increase their spiritual insight and achieve success in their undertakings, devotees immerse themselves in the sacred waters. The air is filled with excitement and positivity due to the day’s lively energy.
Maghi Purnima on February 12, 2025
At the Kumbh Mela, Maghi Purnima is another significant day for a holy bath. In Hinduism, this day, which is the full moon day of the month of Magh, is very important.
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Devotees think bathing in the Triveni Sangam on this day will cleanse them of the year’s misdeeds, bringing them nearer to serenity and spiritual purity. All who visit the Sangam find it a profoundly relaxing experience due to the serene ambience and the gentle moonlight overhead.
Pind Daan
The Pind Daan, a ceremony that pilgrims execute to honour their departed ancestors, is one of the most revered customs at the Kumbh Mela. Devotees believe that by offering food and prayers to their ancestors during this event, the souls of the deceased will be able to find peace and freedom.
Ancestral karmas are said to be resolved andspiritual development is greatly aided by this act of filial piety.
Ardh Kumbh and Maha Kumbh Snans
Many minor but no less sacred bathing rituals are performed during the Kumbh Mela in addition to the particular Shahi Snans. In the Triveni Sangam, these consist of smallerceremonial dips, the Ardh Kumbh Snan and a mid-event bath.
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One views every bath as a chance to repent of previous transgressions, revitalise one’s spiritual life and ask for divine favours.
Last Day – Maha Shivratri on February 26, 2025
Maha Shivratri, a day honouring Lord Shiva, marks the end of the Maha Kumbh Mela. Many devotees take their last dip in the sacred waters, which is thought to provide the ultimate sense of spiritual emancipation, as they assemble for prayers and fast.
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On this day, pilgrims chant mantras, give prayers and ask for blessings for peace, prosperity and Moksha, creating an environment of deep devotion.
- Location :
Prayagraj, India
