Mahakumbh Nagar, Feb 3 (PTI) – Millions of devotees from across the world gathered at the sacred Triveni Sangam on Monday for the third grand 'Amrit Snan' of the Maha Kumbh, coinciding with the auspicious occasion of Basant Panchami. The event, unfolding from the early hours, proceeded smoothly under stringent security measures, following the tragic stampede during the previous ritual on Mauni Amavasya (January 29), which claimed at least 30 lives and left 60 injured.
Enhanced Security and Crowd Control Measures
Determined to prevent any recurrence of the past incident, the Uttar Pradesh government implemented a "zero-error" approach to security and crowd management. Unlike the January 29 event, where excessive crowd pressure built up at the Sangam Nose, this time, devotees were directed to multiple ghats to ease congestion.Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath monitored the situation remotely from his official residence in Lucknow since 3:30 AM, ensuring seamless execution of crowd control strategies. Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Maha Kumbh, Vaibhav Krishna, confirmed that additional security forces had been deployed at pressure points. "Everything is running smoothly today," he stated while patrolling the Mela area before dawn. Later in the morning, senior officials, including the DIG, were seen assessing crowd movement on horseback.
By 10 AM, over 81.24 lakh devotees had taken a dip in the holy waters, with the total footfall for the day expected to reach five crore, according to state government officials.
Sacred Procession of Akharas and Ritual Bathing
As the first light of day broke, seers from various Akharas, including the ash-clad Naga sadhus, began their ceremonial journey towards the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers. Following tradition, three sects—Sanyasi, Bairagi, and Udaseen—took their turn for the sacred bath in a meticulously planned sequence.The Amrit Snan commenced at 4 AM with Akharas of the Sanyasi sect, including Panchayati Akhara Mahanirvani, Shambhu Panchayati Atal Akhara, Taponidhi Panchayati Niranjani Akhara, Panchayati Akhara Anand, Panchdashnam Juna Akhara, Panchdashnam Avahan Akhara, and Panchagni Akhara. Each group was allotted a 40-minute slot, completing their ritual by 8:30 AM.
The Bairagi sect Akharas, comprising All India Panch Nirvani Ani Akhara, All India Panch Digamber Ani Akhara, and All India Panch Nirmohi Ani Akhara, took their turn from 8:25 AM until 12:35 PM.
Finally, the Udaseen sect, including Panchayati Naya Udaseen Akhara, Panchayati Akhara Bada Udaseen Nirvana, and Panchayati Nirmal Akhara, began their bathing ritual at 11 AM, set to conclude by 3:55 PM.
The processions, led by mahants and mahamandaleshwars, featured grand chariots and elaborately decorated palanquins carrying the revered 'Isht Dev' (cherished deity), with hundreds of Naga sadhus and saffron-clad seers accompanying them. In a striking visual, rose petals were showered from a helicopter over the pilgrims and saints, adding to the divine spectacle.
Spiritual Experiences and Devotee Reactions
Devotees expressed their profound spiritual experiences. Juna Akhara Peethadhishwar Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Avdheshanand Giri Maharaj remarked, "The entire world is looking at India, at our social harmony and spiritual values."Delhi-based devotee Sarthak shared, "I feel spiritually rejuvenated after taking the Snan. My mind has found peace."
Among international visitors, Crystal from Belgium said, "Being here is special and divine. I am grateful to my friends who introduced me to Sanatan Dharma." Similarly, Meenakshi Giri from Russia, a member of the Mahanirvani Akhara, reflected, "This is a holy moment in my life. I have been following Sanatan Dharma for 17 years."
Significance of Maha Kumbh and Upcoming Bathing Dates
Held once every 12 years, the Maha Kumbh Mela is considered the world's largest religious gathering. This year's event is particularly auspicious due to the rare celestial alignment of 'Triveni Yog,' occurring once in 144 years.The previous grand bathing day on Mauni Amavasya (January 29) recorded the highest turnout of 8 crore devotees. Other significant gatherings included 3.5 crore on Makar Sankranti (January 14), 2 crore each on January 30 and February 1, and 1.7 crore on Paush Purnima (January 13).
While Monday's Amrit Snan marks the final one for this Kumbh, two more special bathing days remain:
- Maghi Purnima (February 12)
- Mahashivratri (February 26)
Chief Minister Extends Greetings
In a message posted on X (formerly Twitter), CM Yogi Adityanath congratulated the participants of the Amrit Snan, stating, "Greetings to all saints, Akharas, Kalpvasis, and devotees who have taken the holy dip."With enhanced safety measures, a deep spiritual atmosphere, and an overwhelming global turnout, the Maha Kumbh 2025 continues to be a symbol of India's rich religious and cultural heritage.
