Maha Kumbh 2025: Basant Panchami's 'Amrit Snan' begins; UP govt alert after Jan 29 stampede

The Maha Kumbh Mela celebrated its first 'Amrit Snan' Monday since the tragic stampede on 'Mauni Amavasya' on January 29 that claimed at least 30 lives, drawing hundreds of thousands of devotees from around the world seeking spiritual liberation through the sacred dip.

On the auspicious occasion of Basant Panchami, the ceremonial bathing began at dawn as sadhus, including ash-smeared Nagas from various akharas, made their way to the Triveni Sangam.

By 4 am, an impressive 16.58 lakh devotees had already taken the holy dip, contributing to a total of 34.97 crore since January 13, according to information director Shishir.


This year's 'Amrit Snan' holds heightened significance in light of the previous tragedy, prompting the Uttar Pradesh government to implement stringent security and crowd management measures to ensure a safe experience for all attendees.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath personally oversaw preparations, deploying additional personnel, medical staff, and resources to achieve a "zero-error" event. A three-tier system is being implemented to ensure smooth proceedings for the sacred event, according to senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Rajesh Dwivedi.

As per tradition, the akharas from the three sects—Sanyasi, Bairagi, and Udaseen—partook in their holy dips in a pre-determined sequence.

The Sanyasi Sect led the ceremonies, commencing at 4 am, with groups such as Shri Panchayati Akhara Mahanirvani and Shri Shambhu Panchayati Atal Akhara participating.

Each akhara was allotted a 40-minute window for their rituals, with the first group returning to their camps by 8:30 am.

Following the Sanyasi Sect, the Bairagi akharas will begin their bathing sequence at 8:25 am, while the Udaseen Sect is scheduled to perform their 'Amrit Snan' starting at 11 am, concluding by 3:55 pm.

Prayagraj District Magistrate has also declared a holiday for all government employees following the large influx of devotees.

The Maha Kumbh, held every 12 years, is currently charged with unparalleled spiritual energy, attracting lakhs of devotees to the fairgrounds.

Astrologers highlight that this year's event is particularly auspicious due to the 'Triveni Yog', a rare celestial alignment occurring once every 144 years.

The dates for the 'Amrit Snan' are determined by specific planetary alignments involving the Sun, Moon, and Jupiter, believed to enhance the spiritual potency of the sacred rivers.

(With inputs from PTI)