Naga Sadhus are a prominent section of the Akharas, who play a special role in the royal bath of the Kumbh Mela. These sadhus remain naked and apply ashes on their bodies. Naga Sadhus are known for their rigorous penance and restraint. Their presence makes the royal bath even more impressive.
The biggest attraction of the Prayagraj Mahakumbh 2025 fair is the Shahi Snan. Preparations have intensified for the royal bath in the fair. Crores of devotees, saints, Mahatmas, Akharas and Naga Sadhus from all over the world will attend this world famous spiritual gathering. As much as it has spiritual importance, it has equally historical importance. Shahi Snan is not only religiously but also culturally important. It is a living example of Indian tradition, spirituality and devotion. Lakhs of devotees become a part of this event and consider it an important moment of their life.
The royal bath of Prayagraj Kumbh Mela is a symbol of Indian culture, tradition and religious faith. This event makes the world experience the power of Indian spirituality and devotion. The presence of Peshwai and Naga Sadhus makes it more special. Due to this this great festival becomes unique. This time the Maha Kumbh Mela will start on 13 January 2025 with Paush Purnima and will conclude on 26 February 2025 on the day of Mahashivratri.
Sangam bath and tradition of Naga Sadhus:
Shahi Snan is organized on major bathing festivals in the Kumbh Mela. In this, the sages and saints of the Akharas, especially the Naga Sadhus, take bath in the Sangam. It is considered very important from religious point of view. Each Akhara along with its followers and Naga Sadhus reaches the Sangam bank in a grand procession. This bath is called ‘royal’ because of the royal presence of saints and Naga sadhus in it. They reach the Sangam bank in chariots, elephants and on foot, dancing and singing with full royal pomp and carrying with them maces, swords and other weapons, singing hymns.
Prayagraj Mahakumbh 2025 Royal Bath dates
Rules and dates of taking royal bath:
According to Hindu Sanatan belief, bathing in holy rivers during the Kumbh Mela destroys sins and attains salvation. According to religious traditions and scriptures, Shahi Snan holds special significance for sages and Naga Sadhus. It is also considered a symbol of attainment of “divinity” and salvation. Therefore it is an important part of the Kumbh tradition. The royal bath takes place only on three festivals. The first Shahi Snan will take place on Makar Sankranti 14 January 2025. The second Shahi Snan will take place on Mauni Amavasya, 29 January 2025, and the third and final Shahi Snan will take place on Basant Panchami, 3 February 2025.
Peshwai is taken out to reach the place on the banks of Sangam where the Akharas are set up during the Kumbh Mela and the sages and saints stay there. This happens at the time of entry of sages and saints into the fair. A grand procession of Akharas and saints is taken out to enter the fair. This can be called the official entry of the Akharas. In Peshwai the Akharas reach Sangam from the city in a grand manner with their flags, signs and pennants. Horses, elephants, bands and chariots are used in it, which provide royal grandeur to this religious event.
Naga Sadhus are a prominent section of the Akharas, who play a special role in the royal bath of the Kumbh Mela. These sadhus remain naked and apply ashes on their bodies. Naga Sadhus are known for their rigorous penance and restraint. Their presence makes the royal bath even more impressive. Naga Sadhus are also called “Mahayoddha Sadhus” because in ancient times they served as an army to protect religion and society.
The process of royal bath is done under specific rules. The dates of bathing are determined according to the Panchang. Each Akhara takes bath on the banks of Sangam as per its scheduled turn. Naga Sadhus and prominent saints take bath first, which is called ‘First Bath Right’. After this other Akharas and devotees take bath.
