The Maha Kumbh 2025 witnessed an overwhelming participation of devotees on the auspicious occasion of Basant Panchami, marking the third ‘Amrit Snan’ of the festival. By 4 a.m. on Monday, more than 1.65 million pilgrims had taken a sacred dip at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mystical Saraswati at Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, officials reported.
The holy ritual began with the revered Naga Sadhus leading the ceremonial bath, continuing an age-old tradition that showcases India’s deep spiritual heritage. The Maha Kumbh administration took to social media, stating, “Amrit Snan started on the Ghats by Naga Sadhus. The banks of Triveni are witnessing the rich cultural and spiritual legacy of India.”
Since the grand festival began on January 13, over 340 million (34 crore) devotees have participated in various bathing rituals, as per the Uttar Pradesh Information Department. The number of Kalpwasis—spiritual seekers who observe month-long religious austerities—has exceeded one million, further adding to the devotional atmosphere.
On this sacred day, dedicated to Maa Saraswati, the goddess of wisdom and arts, thousands of pilgrims arrived at Prayagraj to take a holy dip and offer prayers. The city witnessed a massive influx of visitors, with Prayagraj Junction experiencing a significant surge in footfall as devotees made their way to the ghats.
Additional Mela Adhikari Vivek Chaturvedi confirmed that processions from Mahanirvani Akhara and Shri Shambhu Panchayati Atal Akhara were en route to the sacred site. “Proper security and logistical arrangements have been made to ensure a smooth and safe experience for the devotees,” he said.
Mahamandleshwars from various akhadas led their followers toward the Sangam, while police personnel also participated in prayers alongside saints and Naga Sadhus. The grand spectacle of the processions and rituals reflected the deep-rooted spiritual significance of the Kumbh Mela.
Basant Panchami, also referred to as Vasant Panchami, Shri Panchami, and Saraswati Panchami, marks the arrival of spring and falls on the fifth day of the Hindu month of Magha. It also signals the beginning of preparations for Holi, which takes place 40 days later.
To manage the vast gathering, the Uttar Pradesh government has deployed an extensive security and surveillance network. The Kumbh Command and Control Centre is monitoring the event through over 3,000 CCTV cameras across 25 designated sectors, 30 pontoon bridges, and several high-security barricades. Many devotees have praised the administration for its meticulous arrangements, ensuring a seamless and safe experience.
The Maha Kumbh 2025, which commenced on January 13, will continue until February 26. The event has already recorded historic participation and is expected to draw millions more from across India and the world in the coming weeks.
