About Kumbh Mela

The Kumbh Mela is the largest peaceful gathering in the world, held every 12 years at four sacred riverbank pilgrimage sites: Prayagraj (Ganges-Yamuna-Saraswati confluence), Haridwar (Ganges), Nashik (Godavari), and Ujjain (Shipra). The Prayagraj Mahakumbh is considered the most auspicious, attracting over 100 million devotees. The festival's origins are rooted in Hindu mythology. According to legend, during the churning of the cosmic ocean (Samudra Manthan), drops of the nectar of immortality (Amrit) fell at these four locations. The Kumbh Mela commemorates this celestial event, and devotees believe that bathing in the sacred waters during the festival washes away sins and leads to moksha (liberation).

The Shahi Snan or Royal Bath is the most spectacular and significant event of the Kumbh Mela. On specific auspicious dates determined by Hindu astrology, different Akharas (religious organizations) lead grand processions to the Sangam for the ceremonial bath. The processions feature: • Naga Sadhus - Ash-smeared ascetics • Decorated elephants and horses • Religious music and chanting • Ceremonial weapons and flags • Holy men on golden palanquins The dates for Shahi Snan in 2025 include Paush Poornima, Makar Sankranti, Mauni Amavasya, Basant Panchami, Maghi Poornima, and Mahashivratri.

The Triveni Sangam area has several ghats where devotees can take the holy bath: • Sangam Ghat - The main confluence point • Ram Ghat - Historic ghat with ancient temples • Saraswati Ghat - Named after the mythical river • Arail Ghat - On the opposite bank • Daraganj Ghat - Popular among locals • Jhusi Ghat - Less crowded alternative Special pontoon bridges and temporary ghats are constructed during the Mela to accommodate the massive influx of pilgrims. Boat services are also available to reach the exact confluence point.