6 primary akharas at the Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj that you need to know about

As per the government's official website on Kumbh, the term akhara, derived from the word Akhand, meaning indivisible or eternal, signifies unity and resilience

By: Lifestyle Desk
New Delhi | Updated: January 24, 2025 05:18 PM IST

2 min read

Maha Kumbh mela 2025 begins gearing up as preparations kick off in Prayagraj. Sadhus come from all over to now visit the sacred site at the Triveni Sangam. (Express Photo by Vishal Srivastava)

A sadhu at Sangam prepares for the upcoming Maha Kumbh mela in Prayagraj. The Maha Kumbh is an occasion for all sadhus to gather, worship, and enjoy the celebrations of the Maha Kumbh Mela. (Express Photo by Vishal Srivastava)

The Kumbh Mela, currently held in Prayagraj, is a significant religious gathering in India steeped in tradition and spirituality. One of its most intriguing aspects is the presence of akharas, ancient organisations of ascetics that play a pivotal role in the mela.

As per the government’s official website on Kumbh, the term akhara, derived from the word Akhand, meaning indivisible or eternal, signifies unity and resilience. According to kumbh.gov.in, Adi Shankaracharya, the 8th-century philosopher and theologian, established these akharas to unite ascetics and safeguard the Sanatan Dharma.

The role and significance of akharas

Akharas serve as custodians of ethical values, promoting virtues like self-restraint, compassion, and morality, the site reads. They are structured organisations where ascetics specialise in spiritual scriptures and martial training. Each akhara follows a strict code of conduct, ensuring the perpetuation of spiritual discipline and ethical values.

Discover the profound role of Akharas at the Kumbh Mela—ancient organisations of ascetics uniting spirituality, discipline, and cultural heritage. (Express photo by Vishal Srivastava)

Despite being divided into various sects based on ideologies and deities, akharas symbolise unity in diversity.

There are six primary Akharas—Shri Akhada Mahanirvani, Shri Niranjani Akhada, Shri Atal Akhada, Shri Anand Akhada, Shri Juna (Bhairav) Akhada, and Shri Avahana Akhada—each with distinct practices. Vaishnava Akhadas are called Bairagi Akhadas, while Udasina and Nirmala Akhadas have Sikh affiliations. The spiritual progress of their members is marked by four levels of sannyasis: Kutichaka, Bahudaka, Hansa, and Paramahansa. These levels signify increasing degrees of renunciation and spiritual enlightenment.

Governance and processions

Akharas are led by Mahamandaleshwaras, who hold the authority to impart spiritual guidance and Guru-mantras to novices. Their vibrant processions, known as Shahi Snaans and Peshvais, are a visual spectacle. These events feature ornate chariots, elephants, and displays of traditional weapons, reflecting the royal glory of the akharas.

The Akhil Bhartiya Akhara Parishad, the apex body of akharas, oversees harmony among these institutions and coordinates their participation in the Kumbh Mela. Along with local administration, it determines the schedule and order of their processions.

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