As the Maha Kumbh 2025 began on January 13, a large crowd of devotees gathered in Prayagraj to mark this special event, highlighted by the rare celestial occurrence of Pushya Nakshatra, last seen 144 years ago. This year, the Mela is also undergoing a cultural shift by replacing Mughal-era terms like 'Shahi Snan' and 'Peshwai' with more traditional Sanatani names such as 'Amrit Snan' and 'Chhavni Pravesh.'
Mahant Ravindra Puri, president of the All India Akhada Parishad, explained, "For the first time in Maha Kumbh history, we are using terms like Rajasi Snan or Amrit Snan instead of the Urdu terms Shahi and Peshwai."
Puri said that the decision to change the terminology was discussed in recent Akhara Parishad meetings. He mentioned that many countries are facing conflicts and there are forces trying to harm Sanatan Dharma. In such times, it is important to protect the tradition and support the district administration in ensuring the security of the Kumbh Mela.
To maintain order and safety, the Akhara Parishad passed a few resolutions. One important resolution was to make Aadhaar or ID proof mandatory for saints and seers attending the Kumbh Mela.They also instructed all Akharas to submit a list of their associated saints to the local authorities to help prevent the entry of fake religious figures, or 'Farzi Babas', into the Mela.
Another important decision made in the meeting, which was attended by the mahamandaleshwars of all the Akharas, was to ban the use of ‘Urdu terms’ at the Kumbh Mela.
Puri added, "It was proposed that terms like 'Shahi' and 'Peshwai', which have been traditionally linked to the Kumbh Mela, be replaced with names rooted in Sanatan Dharma. We submitted this proposal to Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath for his approval. We are grateful to him for considering our suggestion and agreeing to remove terms like 'Shahi' and 'Peshwai' that were historically associated with the Kumbh."
The 45-day-long holy festival will have seven Amrit Snans (holy baths). After the first two on January 13 (the inaugural day) and January 14 (Makar Sankranti), the remaining ones will take place on January 29 (Mauni Amavasya), February 3 (Basant Panchami), February 12 (Magh Poornima), and the last one on February 26 (Mahashivratri).
These special bath days will draw millions of people to the meeting point of the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers, where they believe taking a dip will cleanse their sins and bring blessings.
The Kumbh Mela, a major Hindu festival held every 12 years in cities like Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nasik, and Ujjain, is a grand gathering that combines deep spirituality with rich tradition. Inspired by ancient stories of divine battles, the festival symbolizes purification and spiritual renewal through sacred baths in holy rivers. It attracts millions of people from around the world, seeking to gain spiritual enlightenment and cleanse their sins.
The 2025 Prayagraj Kumbh Mela, running from January 13 to February 26, is set to be the largest human gathering on Earth. It brings together centuries-old practices with modern facilities for security, sanitation, and comfort.
With accommodations for all needs, the event offers a unique opportunity to experience Indian culture and spirituality. Around 40 crore devotees are expected to attend, making it a monumental occasion for both pilgrims and visitors alike.