Mahakumbh 2025: First ‘Amrit Snan’ on Makar Sankranti draws millions
The Mahakumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj began on a grand scale. Over 1 crore devotees took a holy dip at the Sangam on Paush Poornima, setting the stage for the first ‘Amrit Snan’ on Makar Sankranti, Tuesday, January 14. Thousands arrived early, including seers and Naga Sadhus, to participate in this significant event.
The ‘Amrit Snan’ is special because it marks the participation of 13 Akharas, led by Shri Panchayati Akhara Mahanirvani and Shri Shambhu Panchayati Atal Akhara. These groups left their camps at 5:15 AM and reached the Sangam ghat by 6:15 AM. They completed their sacred bath by 6:55 AM and returned to their camps within an hour.
This year, organizers introduced new terms, replacing ‘Shahi Snan’ with ‘Amrit Snan’ and ‘Peshwai’ with ‘Chhavni Pravesh.’ According to Mahant Ravindra Puri, this shift emphasizes spiritual renewal and inclusivity.
The Mahakumbh spans 45 days across a vast 10,000-acre area. Devotees from all over India and abroad are flocking to the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. Many pilgrims stayed back after Paush Poornima to take another holy dip on Makar Sankranti.
Enhanced Facilities for Pilgrims
The Uttar Pradesh government made extensive arrangements for the event. Over 1.5 lakh toilets, 15,000 sanitation workers, and 1.5 lakh tents ensure cleanliness and convenience. Nearly 70,000 LED lights, including solar hybrid streetlights, illuminate the Mela area. A 24×7 Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) monitors the crowd with 2,750 cameras.
To manage lost individuals, authorities set up 10 digital lost-and-found centers. Parking facilities span 1,800 hectares, while 25,000 workers assist pilgrims. Additionally, a floating police chowki ensures safety on water. Over 10,000 security personnel, including police and paramilitary forces, guard the event.
Security and Crowd Management
Deputy Inspector General of Police Vaibhav Krishna explained the division of the Sangam for organized bathing. One section accommodates the Akharas, while the other is open to devotees. Police teams, assisted by Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), oversee the process to maintain order.
Ashutosh Varshney from Ram Naam Bank highlighted the spiritual importance of this ‘Amrit Snan,’ coinciding with Lord Ram Lalla’s ‘Pran Pratishtha’ in Ayodhya. Pilgrims believe this holy bath purifies their souls and brings divine blessings.
As millions gather for the first ‘Amrit Snan,’ Prayagraj transforms into a hub of devotion and spirituality, offering a glimpse of India’s rich cultural heritage.
