Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj: A rare planetary alignment makes it special

The Maha Kumbh Mela, beginning January 13 in Prayagraj, attracts over 40 crore devotees worldwide for a holy dip at the Sangam, symbolising cultural unity.

Held until February 26, this 45-day event offers devotees a chance to purify their souls and attain moksha at the confluence of three sacred rivers.

Originating in the 8th century, Adi Shankaracharya established regular assemblies of ascetics and formed the 13 akharas, shaping the Kumbh tradition.

According to Hindu mythology, drops of amrit, the nectar of immortality, fell at four locations—Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain—creating the Kumbh sites.

The Sangam at Prayagraj, where the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers meet, is believed to wash away sins and grant salvation through the holy dip.

The Kumbh Mela comes in four forms: Maha Kumbh, Purna Kumbh, Ardh Kumbh, and Kumbh Mela, held on a rotational basis at the four sacred sites.

The Maha Kumbh, held once every 144 years, is the rarest and holiest gathering. It marks the completion of 12 Kumbh cycles and is celebrated primarily in Prayagraj.

The highlight of the Maha Kumbh is the Shahi Snan, where saints from various akharas bathe at auspicious times. This is an event of immense spiritual significance.

The dates of the Kumbh Mela are decided according to the positions of the Sun, Moon, and Jupiter, ensuring the event aligns with the Hindu lunar calendar.

The 2025 Maha Kumbh is extraordinary, as all four key planets—Sun, Moon, Jupiter, and Saturn—will align, creating the most auspicious Maha Kumbh in 144 years.

While the Kumbh Mela occurs every three years, the Maha Kumbh happens on a grand scale once in 144 years, primarily in Prayagraj, drawing millions.