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Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Here are the auspicious dates you need to keep in mind

Prayagraj Maha Kumbh 2025 dates: Each date holds unique significance, with the Shahi Snans being the highlight as they feature grand processions by ascetics and saints.

People from different Akharas taking a holy dip (Express Photo by Vishal Srivastav)

The Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, a grand spiritual gathering held every 12 years, will begin in January 2025. It is one of the largest human congregations on Earth, deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and tradition.

Dr Pallavi Jambhale, K J Somaiya Institute of Dharma Studies, says the Maha Kumbh, held every 12 years, is especially significant this time as it marks the return of rare celestial alignments not seen in 144 years. This unique convergence makes the upcoming Maha Kumbh extraordinarily powerful, auspicious, and sacred.

She explained that the central ritual of Kumbh or Maha Kumbh is snan (ritual bathing), which signifies cleansing or purification. Pilgrims flock to the Triveni Sangam—the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers—for a sacred dip, believed to cleanse sins and grant liberation.

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Maha Kumbh, in particular, is believed to offer a cosmic-scale connection with the divine, making it an extraordinary opportunity for spiritual renewal, professor Jambhale added.

The last Maha Kumbh Mela was held in 2013, 12 years ago. Sadhus prepare for the upcoming days through prayer and worship to begin. (Express Photo by Vishal Srivastava.)

The last Maha Kumbh Mela was held 12 years ago in 2013. In pic, Sadhus prepare for the upcoming days through prayer and worship. (Express Photo by Vishal Srivastava)

Here are the key bathing dates to mark on your calendar:

Paush Purnima (13 January 2025): This marks the unofficial start of the Mela, initiating the period of intense spiritual practices known as Kalpavas.
Makar Sankranti (14 January 2025): The first Shahi Snan (Royal Bath) day. This day celebrates the sun’s northward journey and the start of the harvest season.
Mauni Amavasya (29 January 2025): The second Shahi Snan, considered the most auspicious day for a dip, drawing the largest crowds.
Basant Panchami (3 February 2025): The third Shahi Snan, marking the seasonal transition and celebrated with vibrant yellow attire and prayers.
Achla Saptami (4 February 2025): Another critical bathing day with spiritual significance.
Maghi Purnima (12 February 2025): A day associated with venerating celestial blessings at the Sangam.
Maha Shivratri (26 February 2025): The final significant bathing day, dedicated to Lord Shiva, symbolizing spiritual culmination.

Each date holds unique significance, with the Shahi Snans being the highlight as they feature grand processions by ascetics and saints.

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