Devotees gathered at the Triveni Sangam on Tuesday to take a holy dip during Makar Sankranti, marking the first ‘Amrit Snan’ of the Maha Kumbh Mela.
Makar Sankranti, a Hindu festival, signifies the Sun’s transition from the Southern to the Northern Hemisphere. The occasion holds immense spiritual significance, drawing pilgrims from across the country.
Expressing her joy, Alka Dadwal, a devotee from Mumbai, shared her experience. “There is diversity in unity here. People from all over the country have come to the Maha Kumbh Mela. I feel truly blessed to celebrate Makar Sankranti here,” she told ANI.
She also praised the government for its meticulous arrangements. “The Yogi government has provided excellent services. The police are helpful, and the overall management is commendable. I wholeheartedly thank them,” she added.
Another devotee appreciated the cleanliness and crowd management. “Despite the huge crowd, the administration has ensured cleanliness and smooth arrangements. I thank them for their efforts,” the devotee said.
The Sadhus of the Mahanirvani Panchayati Akhada initiated their procession for the Amrit Snan, with Shri Panchayati Akhara Mahanirvani and Shri Shambhu Panchayati Atal Akhara being the first to perform the ritual.
Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Swami Avdheshanand of Juna Akhara explained the order of the ritual, noting that the seven Shaivite Akhadas would take the holy dip first, followed by the three Vaishnavite Akhadas. “The sanyasis of the seven Shaivite Akhadas will come out together first, then the Vaishnavite Akhadas, and then the others,” he said.
Maha Kumbh, held every 12 years at one of four locations in India, is among the largest religious congregations in the world. The Maha Kumbh of 2025, a Poorna Kumbh, will continue until February 26, 2025.
Key bathing dates include:
- January 14: Makar Sankranti (First Shahi Snan)
- January 29: Mauni Amavasya (Second Shahi Snan)
- February 3: Basant Panchami (Third Shahi Snan)
- February 12: Maghi Purnima
- February 26: Maha Shivaratri
