Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 Bathing Dates
at Prayagraj
The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj will be a grand spiritual event, marked by several key Shahi Snan (royal bathing) dates. These are considered the most auspicious days for taking a dip in the sacred rivers of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati, believed to cleanse the soul and bring spiritual merit. Here's a more detailed look at the key bathing dates:
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January 13 - Paush Purnima: The first major bathing date of the festival, Paush Purnima marks the full moon day in the month of Paush in the Hindu calendar. Pilgrims believe that a dip in the holy waters on this day grants blessings and purifies them spiritually.
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January 14 - Makar Sankranti: One of the most widely celebrated festivals in India, Makar Sankranti marks the sun's transition into the zodiac sign of Capricorn. It is an extremely significant day for taking a holy dip in the Kumbh, as it is associated with the shift in the solar cycle, which is believed to herald positive energy.
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January 29 - Mauni Amavasya: This is one of the most important and revered dates in the Kumbh calendar. On Mauni Amavasya, devotees observe silence (maun) while taking a dip in the sacred rivers. It is believed that on this day, the sins of a lifetime can be washed away, and one can achieve moksha (liberation from the cycle of rebirth).
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February 3 - Basant Panchami: This marks the arrival of spring and is celebrated in honor of Goddess Saraswati, the deity of knowledge. Pilgrims believe that bathing on this day grants wisdom and spiritual awakening, and it is a time to offer prayers for learning and enlightenment.
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February 12 - Magh Purnima: The full moon day of Magh month, Magh Purnima is another highly auspicious day for ritual bathing at the Kumbh. Pilgrims gather on this day for a holy dip, which is believed to cleanse the mind, body, and soul, and bring peace and prosperity.
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February 26 - Maha Shivaratri: The final bathing date of the Kumbh Mela, Maha Shivaratri is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is celebrated with much devotion and fervor. On this day, pilgrims believe that taking a dip in the rivers during the night, combined with chanting mantras, will lead to liberation and spiritual fulfillment.
These bathing dates are not only spiritually significant but also draw millions of devotees, making the Maha Kumbh Mela one of the largest gatherings of people in the world. The sacred baths are symbolic of purifying the soul and mind, with each day carrying its unique significance in the Hindu faith.