The ash-smeared 'Naga Sadhus' or Naked Seer led an unbroken stream of over 3.5 crore devotees who took the holy dip 'Amrit Snan', earlier called 'Shahi Snan', on the second day of Mahakhumb, the day of Makar Sankranti.
Yielding swords and spears, playing dharma, and following the bathing order of the Akhara Parishad, the seers from various 'akharas' took the first 'Amrit Snan' at Triveni Sangam. The Akhara Parishad has resolved the traditional conflicts of the bathing order by making institutional arrangements.
Thirteen Akharas, including the famous Nirmohi Akhara, one of the famous Ram Janmabhoomi case parties, participated in the year's Snan.
Akharas, Hindu monastic orders, are significant in the Khumb Mela as they perform many essential rituals and serve as the "custodians of tradition and spirituality."
Historians say the Akharas have been key in preserving Hindu traditions since the 8th century, performing important rituals like the "Amrit Snan."
The grand celebration of the Mahakumbh 2025 officially began in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, on January 13. The `Amrit Snan' took place on January 14.
Previously known as the 'Shahi Snan', the 'Amrit Snan' is more than just a cleansing ritual. It is said to symbolize spiritual renewal, purity, and the unity of believers in the divine grace of the holy rivers.
The first holy dip was led by the Mahanirvani Panchayati Akhara, with other prominent Akharas such as Niranjani Akhara, Anand Akhara, and Shambhu Panchayati Atal Akhara joining in the sacred ritual.
What Is an Akhara?
An ‘Akhara’ is a traditional Hindu institution that serves as a spiritual and religious monastery for ascetics and saints. Rooted in both spiritual and martial traditions, the Akharas are a significant part of the 'Sanatan Dharma'.
The term “Akhara” originally referred to a wrestling ground, but over time it became associated with places for spiritual and philosophical practice.
Historically, Akharas were established to protect and promote the Sanatan Dharma and were influenced by the teachings of Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century, which emphasised the importance of safeguarding Hindu beliefs.
Akharas are primarily divided into four major categories:
Shaiva Akharas: Worshippers of Lord Shiva, known for ascetic practices and meditation.
Vaishnava Akharas: Worshippers of Lord Vishnu and his avatars, focusing on devotion and philosophical teachings.
Udaseen Akharas: A blend of ascetic Hindu traditions and Sikh influences.
Kinnar Akhara: The Akhara that represents the transgender community was officially recognised in recent years.
The role of Akharas in Mahakumbh 2025
Akharas play a central role in rituals during the Kumbh Mela, particularly the Amrit Snan, where Naga sadhus lead grand processions to take holy dips. These rituals take place at designated times for each Akhara, with participants often arriving on decorated elephants and horses, surrounded by the sounds of traditional music and chants.
This year, 13 prominent Akharas—monastic orders of Hinduism—are participating in the Amrit Snan ritual, representing different sects of Hindu philosophy. As per the schedule, Akharas like the Shree Panch Dashnam Juna Akhara, Shree Niranjani Akhara, and Shree Anand Akhara will take part throughout the day, with strict time slots assigned for a smooth and orderly experience.
The first Amrit Snan was led by the Mahanirvani Panchayati Akhara, with other Akharas such as Niranjani Akhara, Anand Akhara, and Shambhu Panchayati Atal Akhara following suit.
Key Akharas this year –
Mahanirvani Akhara: The Mahanirvani Akhara, which led the first Amrit Snan this year, one of the oldest and most revered monastic orders. Mahamandleshwar Swami Gyan Puri, a prominent leader of Mahanirvani Akhara, spoke about the experience of participating in such a massive gathering, where Sadhus, despite the vast crowd, manage to perform the holy dip.
Nirmohi Akhara: A particularly noteworthy aspect of Mahakumbh 2025 is the participation of the Nirmohi Akhara, a key group associated with the Ram Mandir case. The presence of this Akhara is symbolic for Hindus, particularly given its central role in the years-long legal struggle for the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.
With the massive influx of devotees and Akharas, security arrangements have been heightened to ensure the smooth and safe conduct of the Amrit Snan and other activities throughout the Mahakumbh. The local authorities, including police, paramilitary forces, and PAC units, are stationed at key points to assist the Akharas and ensure public safety.
