Maha Kumbh 2025: Key dates for Shahi Snan, significance, and other details

The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 is set to be held in Prayagraj from January 13th, 2025, to February 26th, 2025. This grand event, central to the Hindu faith, occurs once every 12 years and will take place at the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers in Uttar Pradesh.

Significance of Shahi Snan

The Maha Kumbh Mela is recognized as the world's largest public gathering, deeply rooted in Hindu tradition. At its heart are the sacred baths (snans) taken by devotees on specific auspicious dates, particularly the Shahi Snan—a royal ritual that involves saints and spiritual leaders taking a ceremonial dip in the holy waters. It is believed that bathing after these revered figures amplifies the spiritual energy of the Sangam, cleansing sins and freeing individuals from the cycle of birth and death.

Key Dates for Shahi Snan

The Maha Kumbh Mela features six key bathing days, including three royal baths (Shahi Snan) and three main baths. While daily bathing throughout the festival is considered virtuous, the Shahi Snan days hold special significance. Here are the main dates:

January 13, 2025: Paush Purnima

This day marks the unofficial inauguration of the Maha Kumbh Mela and the start of Kalpvasa, a period of intense spiritual practice and devotion observed by pilgrims.

January 14, 2025: Makar Sankranti (Shahi Snan)

Makar Sankranti signifies the sun's transition in the Hindu calendar. It is an auspicious day marking the beginning of charitable donations at the Maha Kumbh Mela.

January 29, 2025: Mauni Amavasya (Shahi Snan)

Mauni Amavasya is considered highly significant for bathing in the holy river due to favorable celestial alignments.

February 3, 2025: Basant Panchami (Shahi Snan)

This day celebrates the arrival of the Goddess Saraswati and the transition of seasons. Devotees take a bath and wear vibrant yellow attire, signifying the importance of the occasion.

February 12, 2025: Maghi Purnima

This day marks the end of a month-long period of austerity for sages and hermits. A holy dip on this day is believed to bring great spiritual benefits.

February 26, 2025: Maha Shivratri

The last day of the Maha Kumbh Mela coincides with Maha Shivratri, celebrating the marriage of Lord Shiva, a day significant for spiritual growth.

The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 promises to be a spiritually enriching event, attracting millions of devotees from around the world to Prayagraj. The Shahi Snan days, in particular, hold profound religious importance, offering a unique opportunity for spiritual cleansing and growth.