On Makar Sankranti, many people came together at the Triveni Sangam to take a sacred bath during the first “Amrit Snan” of the Mahakumbh 2025 on Tuesday. First, the Naga Sadhus, holy men from 13 groups called akharas, dipped into the holy waters, followed by regular pilgrims. The Amrit Snan is the main event of the Maha Kumbh Mela, according to India TV.
These 13 akharas are divided into three groups: Udaseen, Bairagi (Vaishnav), and Sanyasi (Shaivite). The Bairagi akharas include Nirmohi, Digambar Ani, and Nirvani Ani; the two Udaseen akharas are Naya and Bada; and there is also the Nirmala Akhara. The Shaivite akharas include Mahanirvani, Atal, Niranjani, Anand, Bhairav, Awahan, and Agni.
Why do Nagas Bathe First?
Sadhus from different akharas have been gathering in Prayagraj since the eighth century to perform the Amrit Snan. In the past, there were arguments about the order of bathing, but today this order has been officially recognized, News18 reported.
According to religious beliefs, during the Samudra Manthan (the churning of the ocean), four drops of Amrit (nectar) fell at four places: Prayagraj, Ujjain, Haridwar, and Nashik. This is why the Mahakumbh Mela is held in these locations.
The Naga Sadhus, who are dedicated followers of Lord Shiva, are the first to take the sacred dip because of their devotion and deep meditation. This tradition has been followed for many years.
One belief says that Adi Shankaracharya invited the Naga Sadhus to be the first to bathe as a sign of respect for their role in protecting faith. Since then, they have always had the first chance to dip in the holy waters.
Thirteen akharas take part in the Amrit Snan, and there is a specific order for their ceremonial baths. The event is carefully organized by the government to keep these traditions alive, News18 added.
The group that swims first is led by the Acharya Mahamandaleshwar of the akhara’s chariot. Following him are other important leaders. People stand outside the barriers and greet the saints with respect by touching the dust from their feet.
There will be five Amrit Snans this time: on Makar Sankranti (January 14), Mauni Amavashya (January 29), Basant Panchmi (February 3), Maghi Purnima (February 12), and Maha Shivratri (February 26), according to News18.
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