Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Shahi Snan dates and why it happens every 12 years

Mumbai: Excited about the Maha Kumbh Mela in 2025? Planning to head to Prayagraj (Allahabad) for the special and significant religious and cultural event, but are you aware why Mahakumbh occurs only after 12 years? Also, we have shared Shahi Snan dates for Maha Kumbh 2025 in this article.

The Kumbh Mela is held every three years, the Ardh Kumbh Mela every six years, and the Maha Kumbh Mela every twelve years. Maha Kumbh Mela last took place in 2013 and is now set to be held in 2025, promising to be a grand and magnificent event.

The Maha Kumbh Mela is one of India’s most celebrated every 12 years at four sacred locations: Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik. Taking a holy dip during the Kumbh Mela is believed to lead to spiritual salvation. This event holds profound religious importance, rooted in ancient beliefs and traditions.

A vast gathering of saints and devotees from around the world comes together to participate in this sacred festival. The Maha Kumbh creates a scene that feels as though people from every corner of the globe have converged at this grand event. Everyone aspires to take a holy dip in the sacred confluence during the Maha Kumbh, which is why it is often referred to as the ‘Mahasangam.’

Why does the Maha Kumbh Mela occur every 12 years?

The 12-year interval of the Maha Kumbh Mela is deeply connected to religious beliefs and mythology. According to Hindu tradition, the origin of Kumbh Mela traces back to the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean). During this event, gods and demons jointly churned the ocean, resulting in the emergence of Amrit (nectar of immortality). A battle for the Amrit ensued, lasting 12 divine days, which are believed to equate to 12 years on Earth.

It is said that drops of Amrit spilt at 12 locations, of which four are on Earth: Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik. These sites became the focal points for the Kumbh Mela.

Additionally, astrologically, Jupiter completes its transit through the 12 zodiac signs every 12 years. The Kumbh Mela is organised when Jupiter aligns with specific zodiac signs, making it an auspicious period for the event.

This year Kumbh Mela is organised in Pragyaraj because when the Guru (Jupiter) is in Taurus and the King of Planets (Sun) is in Capricorn, the Maha Kumbh is organised in Prayagraj.

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj: Key dates and Shahi Snans

The Maha Kumbh Mela in 2025 will commence in Prayagraj on 13 January 2025, concluding on 26 February 2025, coinciding with Mahashivratri. Devotees believe that bathing at the confluence (Sangam) of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers during the Kumbh Mela brings immense spiritual merit and blessings.

Shahi Snan dates 2025

Paush Purnima – 13 January 2025
Makar Sankranti – 14 January 2025
Mauni Amavasya – 29 January 2025
Basant Panchami – 3 February 2025
Magh Purnima – 12 February 2025
Mahashivratri – 26 February 2025

Shahi Snan significance

The Shahi Snan, or Royal Bath, is a significant aspect of the Kumbh Mela. It is believed that the waters of the holy rivers turn as pure as nectar during this time, and bathing in them absolves one of sins, paving the way to salvation.

The confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers in Prayagraj holds special spiritual significance. Taking a dip here during the Kumbh Mela is believed to bestow divine blessings and immense spiritual virtue.

Millions of devotees from across the world gather to participate in the Shahi Snan, making it a monumental event symbolising faith, devotion and unity.

The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 is not just a religious gathering; it’s a celebration of faith, culture, and devotion. With its roots in mythology and celestial movements, this event offers a unique blend of spirituality and tradition.

The Maha Kumbh Mela promises an experience of a lifetime. Mark your calendar, and be a part of this extraordinary celebration in Prayagraj.