Naga Sadhus And The Spirit Of Maha Kumbh: My Reflections From Prayagraj

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By editor - 30.1 2025

The fog began to lift as our boat gently drifted towards the Sangam, the sacred confluence of the Ganges and Yamuna rivers, where legend whispers of the mythical Saraswati joining their embrace. The blue-grey waters of the Ganges mingled with the placid, emerald-tinged Yamuna while migratory birds flitted across the surface, their calls adding to the symphony of the morning. Chilled by the river breeze, the air at the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 hummed with the divine chants of “Har Har Mahadev” and “Jai Gange“, creating a sensory overload that both invigorated and overwhelmed me.

Around us, colourful boats bobbed gently on the waves, each carrying stories of unwavering faith. Pilgrims, their faces etched with devotion, performed rituals, meditated, and waited for their moment of communion with the sacred waters. I saw an old man tenderly supporting his ageing wife, a young boy perched proudly on his father’s shoulders, and a mother holding her daughters close – families bound by love and duty, seeking purification and blessings from the river goddesses.

The icy waters sent shivers down my spine as I finally took the plunge, but I was also strangely exhilarated. The surge of emotion, a mixture of awe and humility, was almost overwhelming. I felt embraced by the river, a motherly presence that washed away my worries and left me feeling strangely cleansed and renewed. At that moment, I understood that true purification comes not just from physical immersion but also from the unwavering faith that underpins it.

This is no ordinary festival. The Maha Kumbh, a once-in-144-year event, is a spectacle of faith unlike any other. For some, it’s a vibrant mela, a bustling fair; for others, it’s a milan, a sacred reunion. But for many, it’s a profound spiritual awakening, a testament to the power of unwavering devotion. Standing on the riverbank, shivering in the cold, I thought of my late mother, her love, a warm embrace that still lingered within me. As the river welcomed me into its embrace, I found myself both crying and smiling, unable to fully comprehend the depth of the emotions that surged within me.

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Significance, faith and legend

The Maha Kumbh Mela transcends the definition of a mere event or festival; it’s a profound religious rite of passage and a breathtaking spectacle of faith. UNESCO has recognised it as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, the largest peaceful gathering of humankind ever recorded. A mesmerising confluence of spirituality, ancient traditions, astronomy, astrology, and mythology, the Festival of the Sacred Pitcher finds its roots deeply embedded in the ancient Puranas.

The “Kumbh” refers to the sacred pitcher holding the nectar of immortality, or Amrita. According to the Puranas, the epic tales of ancient India, the Devas (gods) and Asuras (demons) engaged in a titanic struggle, the Samudra Manthan – the churning of the ocean – to acquire this divine elixir. In this epic battle, Lord Vishnu, disguised as the enchanting Mohini, outsmarted the demons and presented the Amrita to the gods. As he ascended to heaven with the sacred pitcher, a few precious drops of the nectar fell to Earth at four holy sites: Prayagraj, Ujjain, Haridwar, and Nashik, marking the locations for the Maha Kumbh Mela.

The legend of the Kumbh Mela unfolds over a cosmic timescale. The twelve days of the celestial battle correspond to a 12-year cycle on Earth.

Another version of the legend attributes the origin of the Kumbh Mela to a celestial event. Jayant, the son of Indra, the king of the gods, was entrusted with guarding the Kumbh from the Asuras, aided by the Sun, Moon, Jupiter, and Saturn. Their celestial journey culminated at Prayagraj, where a rare astronomical alignment occurred, drawing together saints and sages in a momentous gathering.

However, it is widely believed that the renowned Hindu saint, Adi Shankaracharya, played a pivotal role in unifying various Hindu sects and establishing the Kumbh Mela as a pan-Indian event, laying the foundation for the ten Akharas (orders of ascetics) that participate in this grand spectacle.

Kumbh encounters: My tryst with the eccentric Naga Sadhus

Naga Sadhus, icons of the Kumbh 

Amidst the surging human tide at Prayagraj, the Naga Sadhu stands out as the quintessential icon of the Maha Kumbh. Stark naked, dramatic, and often temperamental, they are a spectacle that draws a constant stream of curious onlookers. A selfie with a Naga Sadhu has almost become a rite of passage for pilgrims, a testament to their Kumbh experience.

Smeared in burnt wood ash and adorned with dreadlocks and rudraksha beads, these mystical men exude an aura of awe and intimidation. Their tridents and spears, relics of a warrior past, add to their formidable presence. Legend has it that the Naga Sadhus are descendants of a warrior clan tasked with defending the faith against invaders.

We encountered several of these enigmatic figures. One, a Standing Baba or Khareshwari, had taken a vow of perpetual standing, defying sleep. Another sat with one arm raised high, a testament to years of unwavering devotion.

Interacting with Naga Sadhus requires a delicate touch. Respectful distance is key unless invited closer. Seek permission before taking photos, and avoid bombarding them with questions. A small offering left on their plate is considered customary. While most are friendly and willing to engage in brief conversations, it’s crucial to be mindful of their time and space.

Different types of Kumbh Mela

The Kumbh Mela, a massive Hindu pilgrimage, occurs at four sacred river sites: Prayagraj (Triveni Sangam), Ujjain (Kshipra River), Nashik (Godavari River), and Haridwar (Ganga River). All four sites host the Purna Kumbh (complete) every 12 years. The Ardh Kumbh, held every six years, occurs at Prayagraj and Haridwar. Astrological calculations, particularly the position of Jupiter, determine the auspicious dates for the Kumbh Mela at each location. Since Jupiter takes 12 years to orbit the Sun, the Purna Kumbh aligns with this celestial cycle.

What is unique about the 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela?

The Maha Kumbh Mela occurs once every 144 years and aligns with a unique celestial configuration. This auspicious event is determined by the precise positioning of several celestial bodies, primarily the Sun, Moon, and Jupiter. While some astrologers emphasise the significance of the Pushya constellation, which is also in alignment, others consider the influence of Mercury and Saturn.

During this rare convergence, rivers are believed to be infused with divine nectar, and a simple dip in their sacred waters is thought to cleanse devotees of all sins. The Maha Kumbh Mela is a time of profound spiritual renewal and a testament to the enduring power of faith and tradition.

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Dates, venue, snaan timings

The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 is underway at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, starting on January 13 and concluding on February 26. While every day is considered auspicious for immersing oneself in the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers, several dates hold particular significance:

Shahi Snaan (Royal Bathing) dates:

January 14: Makar Sankranti
January 29: Mauni Amavasya
February 3: Basant Panchami

Other auspicious bathing dates:

January 13: Paush Poornima
February 12: Maghi Poornima
February 26: Maha Shivaratri

While bathing times are not fixed, devotees can visit the Sangam between 5 am and 7 pm.

Planning your visit to Maha Kumbh Mela 2025

An estimated 500 million pilgrims are expected to attend the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 | Image credit: Lakshmi Sharath

The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 is expected to draw an immense crowd, with an estimated 500 million pilgrims in attendance. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, consider the following tips:

The closest airport is the Bamrauli Air Force Base, approximately 12 km from the Kumbh Mela site. However, due to heavy traffic, travel time to the airport can be more than an hour. Book flights well in advance to secure the best deals and availability.
Prayagraj boasts excellent connectivity via rail and road networks, with frequent trains and buses connecting to major cities across India.
Always carry valid identification documents (e.g., driver’s license, passport). Keep a list of essential contact numbers and addresses readily available.

Things to do at the 2025 Maha Kumbh

 

Experience the sacred dip: Whether on a Shahi Snaan (royal bathing) day or any other auspicious occasion, take a dip in the holy confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. Designated bathing areas help manage crowds.
Enjoy a boat ride: A boat ride along the Yamuna River offers a serene, less crowded approach to the Triveni Sangam. Plan to sit ‘Ganga Kinare’ in Allahabad with this local-guided tour of the Triveni Sangam, Prayagraj.

Witness the Triveni Ghat arati: Don’t miss the beautiful evening arati ceremony at Triveni Ghat, a breathtaking display of light and devotion that takes place at 7 pm.
Explore the spiritual heart of Prayagraj: There are several temples in and around Prayagraj like the Adi Shankaracharya Mandapam, Lete Hue Hanuman Temple, Veni Madhav Temple, Mankameshwar Temple, Nag Vasuki Temple, and the indestructible Akshayvat. Pay your respects at the Alopi Devi Temple and the Shaktipeeth.

Visit the Ashrams and Akhadas: Visit the Akhadas to encounter Naga Sadhus and other revered saints and seers. Remember to seek permission before photographing them. Explore various ashrams and dharamshalas, which offer opportunities for spiritual reflection and simple meals.
Attend cultural events: Participate in captivating concerts, enlightening discourses, and rejuvenating yoga and meditation camps.

Hotels in Prayagraj 2025

Tent City at the 2025 Kumbh Mela Grounds

Prayagraj offers several accommodation options, from budget hotels and guesthouses to ashrams and dharamshalas. Several campsites have also been set up within the Kumbh Mela grounds and in small hamlets outside the city. A Tent City inside the Mela grounds offers a variety of options, including ITDC Luxury Camps and accommodations organised by the government through UPSTDC.

Some of the most luxurious tents are located on the banks of the River Ganga or Yamuna, alongside picturesque fields. Stay in  (179 luxury tents catering to families and large groups), nestled in a serene village on the banks of the Ganga, 7 km from the city. Serving various vegetarian dishes across different cuisines, the tents are sprawling, comfortable, luxurious, and perfect for resting after your tryst with the Mahakumbh. They also have yoga and meditation workshops and will help you plan your activities at the Kumbh, including a boat ride and ritual bath at the Sangam.

If you want a more authentic experience on the Kumbh Grounds, head to Bookmark Naga Shivir in Sector 16. Here, you can try Sattvic cuisine and, if they are available, meet the saints from Juna Akhada. There are 35 tents, which are comfortable and aesthetic, and you get to experience the spiritual atmosphere as well. 

Must try food and cuisines at Kumbh 2025

From street food to local eateries, ashrams to dharamshalas, you must try some of the local sweets and savouries at the 2025 Maha Kumbh. Some of the regulars even have an interesting prefix to them. From Masala Churmura and Chaurasiya Samosa to Dehati Rasgulla and Netram Kachori, it’s a Chaat lover’s paradise. Don’t miss Makhan Malai and Thandai and a variety of sweets. Visit Pandit Ji Ki Chaat, Rajaram Lassi Wale, and Netram Moolchand Sweet Shop.

Insider tips for first-time visitors

The Maha Kumbh Mela is a truly awe-inspiring experience, but planning and preparing for your visit is essential. Here are some insider tips for first-time visitors:

Plan your trip well in advance, booking accommodations and transportation through authorised campsites and tour operators.
Pack warm clothing (woollens, scarves, socks), comfortable footwear (sandals), sunscreen, a water bottle, and essential medications.
Avoid carrying excess baggage, especially plastic items. Bring a change of clothes if you plan to bathe in the holy waters.
Obtain a map of the Kumbh Mela grounds, divided into 30 sectors.
Verify the location of your campsite, ensuring it’s within the Mela grounds or in a nearby village.
Consider hiring a local guide to navigate the crowds and provide valuable insights.
Utilise public transportation like rickshaws whenever possible. Walking is a great way to experience the Mela atmosphere.
Be mindful of traffic regulations within the city and Mela grounds.
Always ask for permission before photographing Naga Sadhus and other ascetics.
If you wish to offer donations, do so respectfully and thoughtfully.
Minimise the amount of valuables you carry.
For safety and security, travel in groups whenever possible.