On the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti, Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Swami Avdheshanand of the Juna Akhara participated in the sacred ‘Amrit Snan’ at the Triveni Sangam—the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati River. Following the ritual, he remarked, “Yaksha, Gandharva, and Kinnars, all took a holy dip today,” and offered prayers for the well-being of Bharat.
Speaking to ANI, Swami Avdheshanand described the significance of the moment, noting that the event marks the beginning of the Hindu month of Magha, a time when devotees come to the Maha Kumbh to perform rituals (anushthan) and take part in the holy bath (snan). “Water holds a sacred place in our Sanatan culture. It has life-giving properties, and the existence of our Gods, like Narayana and Brahma, is linked to water,” he stated.
Swami Avdheshanand further expressed that many devotees are not only coming for the ritual bath but also to seek the deeper meaning of life. “Many have come here to explore the essence of human existence,” he added.
Meanwhile, Mahamandaleshwar Swami Gyan Puri of the Mahanirvana Akhara remarked on the enormous turnout, stating, “It’s an incredible sight. Despite the massive crowd, everyone finds a place for the holy dip. Such harmony is only possible here.”
Swami Lalitanand Giri, Mahamandaleshwar of the Niranjani Akhara, spoke of the rare celestial alignment on this special day, saying, “This is the first time in 144 years that such a combination is happening. It’s a blessing for everyone, including the gods and goddesses. On this significant festival of the Kumbh, I pray for peace and well-being across the world.”
Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Laxmi Narayan Tripathi of the Kinnar Akhara also participated in the Amrit Snan and expressed her joy, stating, “We are fortunate to be part of the first Amrit Snan of Mahakumbh 2025. Wishing everyone a very Happy Makar Sankranti.”
Chidanand Saraswati, the spiritual head of Parmarth Niketan Ashram in Rishikesh, also addressed the gathering, encouraging attendees to return home with a commitment to conserve rivers and plant trees. “The happiness I saw on the faces of those taking the holy dip on Paush Purnima was heartwarming. Let this day be dedicated to the conservation of our rivers and environment,” he urged. He also quoted Prime Minister Modi’s statement, “Ek Ped Maa ke naam,” emphasizing the importance of environmental stewardship.
As of Tuesday, over 20 million devotees have taken the holy dip during the first ‘Amrit Snan’ of Maha Kumbh 2025. The previous day, around 16 million people participated in the bath.
The Maha Kumbh, which began on January 13, will continue until February 26, with the next key bathing dates being January 29 (Mauni Amavasya – Second Shahi Snan), February 3 (Basant Panchami – Third Shahi Snan), February 12 (Maghi Purnima), and February 26 (Maha Shivaratri).
The Maha Kumbh, celebrated once every 12 years, is expected to draw over 450 million devotees during its duration. The grand event will conclude on February 26.