From Shahi Snan to Pind Daan: 8 Sacred Rituals of Kumbh Mela You Can’t Miss

Kumbh mela in Allahabad (Image: PTI)

The Maha Kumbh Mela is one of the largest and most significant religious fairs in the world with Hindu believers, worshippers, pilgrims and seekers thronging to this fair from all over India and beyond. This important pilgrimage fair is held once in twelve years in the Triveni Sangam at Prayag (Now known as Allahabad or formally as Prayagraj), Uttar Pradesh in India where three rivers Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati unite. The next Maha Kumbh Mela will start on January 13, 2025, with the Paush Purnima Snan and end on February 26, 2025, with the popular festival of Maha Shivratri.

Hence the Kumbh Mela is not only a festival being celebrated but also millions of people actually seek spiritual rebirth and Moksha from the process of reincarnation. At this grand event, different rites have great meanings. Among them there are some that every participant should and still be capable of seeing and joining in to get a feel of the religiousview of the Kumb Mela.

Here are eight sacred rituals of the Maha Kumbh Mela that you cannot afford to miss:

1. Paush Purnima Snan (January 13, 2025)

The Maha Kumbh Mela begins with the Paush Purnima Snan, the first ritual bath of the festival. On this day, devotees gather at the Triveni Sangam to take a holy dip in the sacred waters of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. The bath is believed to cleanse the soul of sins and bring spiritual peace. The Paush Purnima marks the commencement of this grand event and sets the tone for the sacred rituals that follow.

2. First Shahi Snan – Makar Sankranti (January 14, 2025)

The first Shahi Snan, held on Makar Sankranti, is a highlight of the Kumbh Mela. On this day, thousands of sadhus (holy men), along with pilgrims, immerse themselves in the confluence of the three rivers. This is one of the most significant bathing days, as it is believed that taking a dip on Makar Sankranti purifies the body and soul, making it an ideal moment for devotees to seek blessings for a prosperous year ahead.

3. Second Shahi Snan – Mauni Amavasya (January 29, 2025)

Mauni Amavasya is considered the most auspicious day of the Kumbh Mela. The second Shahi Snan occurs on this day, when devotees fast and practice silence (Maun) as they bathe at the Triveni Sangam. It is believed that the waters of the sacred rivers are especially powerful on this day, washing away all sins and bringing spiritual liberation. The atmosphere is charged with devotion, as thousands of people gather to witness and participate in the bath.

4. Third Shahi Snan – Basant Panchami (February 3, 2025)

On Basant Panchami, the third Shahi Snan takes place. It is celebrated as the arrival of spring, symbolizing renewal and rejuvenation. The festival also marks the worship of Goddess Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge. Devotees take a dip in the holy waters, believing that it will enhance their spiritual wisdom and bring success in their endeavours. The vibrant energy of this day fills the air with optimism and positivity.

5. Maghi Purnima (February 12, 2025)

Maghi Purnima is another important day for a holy bath at the Kumbh Mela. It is the full moon day of the Magh month and holds great significance in Hinduism. On this day, devotees believe that taking a dip in the Triveni Sangam will wash away the accumulated sins of the year, bringing them closer to spiritual purity and peace. The peaceful atmosphere at the Sangam, with the soft glow of the moon overhead, creates a deeply meditative experience for all who visit.

6. Pind Daan

One of the most sacred rituals at the Kumbh Mela is the Pind Daan, a rite that is performed by pilgrims to honour their deceased ancestors. During this ceremony, devotees offer food and prayers to their ancestors in the belief that this will help the souls of the departed achieve peace and liberation. This act of filial piety is considered deeply important for spiritual growth and the resolution of ancestral karmas.

7. Ardh Kumbh and Maha Kumbh Snans

In addition to the specific Shahi Snans, the Kumbh Mela sees many smaller but equally sacred bathing rituals. These include the Ardh Kumbh Snan, a mid-event bath, and other smaller ceremonial dips in the Triveni Sangam. Each bath is seen as an opportunity to cleanse oneself of past sins, renew one’s spiritual practice, and seek divine blessings.

8. Maha Shivratri (February 26, 2025)

The Maha Kumbh Mela concludes on Maha Shivratri, a day dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees gather for prayers and fasting, and many take their final dip in the holy waters, which is believed to bring an ultimate sense of spiritual liberation. The atmosphere on this day is one of profound devotion, with pilgrims chanting mantras, offering prayers, and seeking blessings for peace, prosperity, and Moksha.

Kumbh Mela: Significance

At its core, the Kumbh Mela is an event that transcends just the physical act of bathing. It is a profound spiritual journey, steeped in history and tradition, offering participants a rare opportunity to cleanse their sins, gain spiritual wisdom, and connect with millions of like-minded souls. The rituals, especially the Shahi Snans and Pind Daan, are vital aspects of this transformative experience, fostering a deep sense of devotion, peace, and spirituality.

Whether you are a first-time visitor or a regular pilgrim, the Maha Kumbh Mela offers a unique and unforgettable experience. It is a time to cleanse the body, mind, and soul, seek forgiveness, and connect with the divine. Don’t miss the chance to participate in these sacred rituals and witness the spiritual grandeur of one of the world’s largest and holiest gatherings.