Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Snan dates and spiritual significance of the holy bath
Kumbh Mela 2025 – Dates for the Sacred Bathing
The Kumbh Mela is one of the largest and most sacred gatherings in the world. Every 12 years, millions of devotees gather in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, to participate in this grand pilgrimage, where divine significance is attributed to purification, liberation, and divine connection.
This event takes place at the confluence of three sacred rivers — Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati. Thus, devotees come together at this single location to wash away their sins in anticipation of the blessings of the gods. The Kumbh Mela 2025 will be held from 13th January to 26th February, attracting devotees to Prayagraj with faith, traditions, and devotion.
Summary of Major Events and Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Kumbh Mela Duration | 13th January – 26th February, 2025 |
| Poush Purnima Snan | 13th January, 2025 |
| Makar Sankranti (First Royal Bath) | 14th January, 2025 |
| Mauni Amavasya (Second Royal Bath) | 29th January, 2025 |
| Vasant Panchami (Third Royal Bath) | 3rd February, 2025 |
| Maghi Purnima Snan | 12th February, 2025 |
| Maha Shivaratri (Final Royal Bath) | 26th February, 2025 |
The grand opening ceremony of this event is called Poush Purnima Snan, which takes place on 13th January. This is a sacred festival where the first holy bath is taken, marking the official commencement of the event. During the following stages of the festival, special bathing days will be celebrated again — the second royal bath. These royal baths hold significant spiritual meaning. They have been given names that reflect their equal importance, as mentioned below:
Poush Purnima – 13th January, 2025
The Poush Purnima Snan symbolizes the official beginning of the Kumbh Mela, where devotees gather in large numbers to take the first holy dip. Devotees gather at the Triveni Sangam to take their first holy bath. On this occasion, the revered ascetics and highly respected Naga Sadhus officially take the first royal bath, confirming their sacred status as spiritual warriors. Their presence at the Mela is filled with complete devotion and respect.
Makar Sankranti – 14th January, 2025 (First Royal Bath)
Makar Sankranti, which comes after the grand Poush Purnima Snan, is one of the most important days for devotees. This day is known as the First Royal Bath, and it holds special significance because the Sun enters the Capricorn (Makar) zodiac. It is believed that taking a dip on this day washes away past sins and brings prosperity. Millions of pilgrims, along with ascetics and saints, gather to bathe in the sacred rivers in search of both spiritual and material blessings.
Mauni Amavasya – 29th January, 2025 (Second Royal Bath)
Next comes Mauni Amavasya, one of the most spiritually significant days of the Kumbh Mela. Devotees observe a vow of silence (known as Maun Vrat) while taking their sacred bath. It is believed that meditation on this day, along with prayers for peace and liberation, yields profound spiritual benefits. Most people consider this bath to be spiritually rejuvenating, as it is believed to bring them closer to the ultimate truth.
Vasant Panchami – 3rd February, 2025 (Third Royal Bath)
The next important day is Vasant Panchami, celebrated with color and devotion. It marks the arrival of spring and signifies renewal. The Third Royal Bath is taken by pilgrims, who seek blessings from Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge and education. This day holds particular significance for students and scholars. As various celebrations take place, devotees believe that this day marks a new beginning in their lives and souls.
Maghi Purnima – 12th February, 2025
Maghi Purnima is the day when the Maghi Purnima Snan takes place. This is a day of deep faith and tradition. Bathing on this day is believed to offer spiritual benefits and liberation from past misdeeds. It also symbolizes the conclusion of Makar Sankranti and marks the beginning of the next phase of spiritual development.
Maha Shivaratri – 26th February, 2025
Thus, the Kumbh Mela will conclude on 26th February, 2025, with the grand celebration of Maha Shivaratri. On this day, the final royal bath takes place, and devotees express their devotion and reverence towards Lord Shiva. They pray for spiritual growth, freedom, and peace of mind. With the Maha Shivaratri Snan, the spiritual awakening, community spirit, and unity of the 2025 Kumbh Mela will come to a close.
The Kumbh Mela is not just a religious gathering but an expression of faith, belief, and divine blessings. Whether it’s taking a sacred dip in the holy waters, offering prayers, or engaging in spiritual contemplation, there is no parallel to this journey.
Mark your calendars — this once-in-a-lifetime journey begins on 13th January, 2025. Experience the unforgettable moments of the Kumbh Mela 2025.
