First ‘Amrit Snan’ Begins on Makar Sankranti with Millions Gathering
The grand Mahakumbh Mela 2025 commenced in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, with over 1 crore devotees taking a sacred dip at the Triveni Sangam, marking a spiritual start to the world’s largest religious gathering. On January 14, coinciding with Makar Sankranti, the first ‘Amrit Snan’ has drawn millions, including seers and Naga Sadhus, to the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mystical Saraswati rivers.
The first Amrit Snan began at 5:30 AM on Tuesday, following the initial ‘snan’ on Paush Poornima, January 13. The Akharas, led by prominent groups like Shri Panchayati Akhara Mahanirvani and Shri Shambhu Panchayati Atal Akhara, played a pivotal role in the event. This Amrit Snan holds special significance as it follows the grand ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony of Lord Ram Lalla in Ayodhya, as noted by Ashutosh Varshney from the Ram Naam Bank.
Key Highlights of Mahakumbh 2025
- Sacred Bath Timings and Participation:
Shri Panchayati Akhara Mahanirvani and Shri Shambhu Panchayati Atal Akhara were the first to take the Amrit Snan, beginning their journey from the camp at 5:15 AM and completing the ritual by 6:55 AM. A systematic schedule ensures all 13 Akharas complete their dips under police supervision. - Revised Terminology:
Traditional terms like ‘Shahi Snan’ and ‘Peshwai’ have been renamed ‘Amrit Snan’ and ‘Chhavni Pravesh’ respectively, reflecting a fresh perspective on this ancient tradition. - Massive Arrangements:
The Uttar Pradesh government has undertaken monumental efforts to manage the influx of devotees:- Sanitation: 1.5 lakh toilets, 15,000 sanitation workers, and 2,500 Ganga Seva Doots are ensuring cleanliness.
- Accommodation: Over 1.5 lakh tents have been set up for pilgrims.
- Security: More than 10,000 personnel, including local police and paramilitary forces, have been deployed, supported by 2,750 surveillance cameras and a 24×7 Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC).
- Infrastructure: 69,000 LED lights, including solar-powered ones, illuminate the vast 10,000-acre area. Parking facilities span 1,800 hectares to accommodate vehicles.
- Special Provisions for Safety and Comfort:
- Nine police teams are managing the holy dips of the Akharas, while separate areas have been designated for the general devotees.
- A floating police chowki has been established to provide immediate assistance on the waters of Sangam.
- Ten digital lost-and-found centers are operational to help locate missing individuals.
Makar Sankranti: The Spiritual Significance
Makar Sankranti, celebrated as the Sun’s transition into the Northern Hemisphere, marks a pivotal day in the Mahakumbh. Pilgrims and spiritual leaders believe that taking a holy dip on this day washes away sins and grants blessings for the year ahead.
The Mahakumbh Mela 2025 is not just a religious event but a testament to India’s ability to manage large-scale gatherings while preserving its spiritual heritage. The event will continue for 45 days, drawing millions of devotees from across the globe to Prayagraj, turning it into a hub of devotion and cultural unity.
