As the Maha Kumbh 2025 draws near to its majestic end, something astronomical is to appear above Earth. A celestial rareness is happening where a lineup of seven planets in the solar system will make themselves visible together.

The planets of Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune will be on display in the Indian night sky, creating a beautiful astronomical spectacle. This unique alignment, which began in January with Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune, will reach its peak on February 28, 2025, when Mercury completes the lineup. On this date, all seven planets will be positioned on one side of the Sun, making for a rare planetary parade.

For many this alignment has a spiritual meaning, as celestial phenomena are often believed to enhance the sacred energy of the Maha Kumbh. 

The festival, celebrated once in 12 years in Prayagraj and once in four years in Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik, is strongly associated with the movements of planets, especially the revolution of Jupiter. Millions of pilgrims gather to have a sacred bath in the sacred rivers in a belief that it liberates them from the cycle of birth and death.

Where and how to view

The term "planetary alignment" is often used informally, as these celestial bodies do not form a perfect line but instead appear along the ecliptic—the Sun’s apparent path in the sky.

Five of the planets—Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn—can be seen with the naked eye, and Uranus and Neptune will have to be observed with binoculars or telescopes because they are so dim.

The optimal viewing hours will be twilight hours, either shortly after sunset or shortly before sunrise, when the planets will be higher in the sky. Clear skies and minimal light pollution will make the planets more visible, providing an mesmerizing sight for astronomers and spiritual pilgrims alike.

Will this happen again?

Astronomers forecast that there will be the same event in mid-August in 2025, when there will be six planets visible on the morning horizon. Although Uranus and Neptune might be a challenge to catch with the naked eye, the two can also be seen on favorable days under proper equipment.

With the alignment of this heavenly wonder and the divine spirit of Maha Kumbh 2025, the festival is actually a once-in-a-lifetime event for anyone who gets to experience it amidst the holy atmosphere of Prayagraj.

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