Mahakumbh Mela, Makar Sankranti, Pongal 2025 Live Updates: The first ‘Amrit Snan’ has begun today in Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj on the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti, which celebrates the Sun’s entrance into the astrological sign of Makara.
The Maha Kumbh Mela, considered one of the largest religious gatherings, began yesterday in Prayagraj, with a record 1.5 crore gathering at Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati rivers, to take part in the holy dip ritual.
Today marks the first “Shahi Snan” (royal bath), marking a significant spiritual event during the Maha Kumbh Mela. The ritual holds deep spiritual meaning beyond just purifying sins. The Naga Sadhus will take the first holy dip at the Sangam, followed by the general public.
Held once every four years at one of the four locations in India, the Maha Kumbh Mela is one of the most significant religious congregations. The cultural extravaganza is being held from January 13 to February 26.
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Mahakumbh Mela, Makar Sankranti Live Updates: What Is Pongal & When It Is Celebrated?
Pongal, also referred to as Thai Pongal (Tai Pongal), is a multi-day Hindu harvest festival of South India, particularly in the Tamil community. It is observed at the start of the month Tai, according to Tamil solar calendar, to thank the Sun God, which provides the warmth and energy required for agricultural development.
According to Drik Panchang, this year, Pongal will be grandly marked on January 14, corresponding to Makar Sankranti. It will continue for four days and conclude on January 17 (Friday). The festival lasts for four days, starting with Bhogi Pongal and continuing with Surya or Thai, Mattu and Kaanum Pongal.
Mahakumbh Mela, Makar Sankranti Live Updates: Important Bathing Dates
Paush Purnima, the 15th day of the Shukla Paksha, marks the beginning of the 45-day Maha Kumbh Mela. The ‘Amrit Snan’ is taking place today on the occasion of Makar Sankranti.
Bathing Dates
Paush Purnima – 13 January 2025Makar Sankranti – 14 January 2025 (First Shahi Snan)Mauni Amavasya – 29 January 2025 (Second Shahi Snan)Basant Panchami – 3 February 2025 (Third Shahi Snan)Maghi Purnima – 12 February 2025Maha Shivaratri – 26 February 2025 (Final Snan)
Mahakumbh Mela, Makar Sankranti Live Updates: What Is Amrit Snan?
Amrit Snan, translating to ‘nectar bath’, is an important spiritual ritual in the Maha Kumbh where devotees immerse themselves in holy waters. The act symbolises the purification of the soul and the pursuit of immortality. Rooted in Hindu mythology, it is believed that the holy bath washes away the sins of individuals and leads to a virtuous life.
Mahakumbh Mela, Makar Sankranti Live Updates: Sadhus Take Holy Dip As ‘Amrit Snan’ Begins
Sadhus of Mahanirvani Panchayati Akhada take holy dip as the first Amrit Snan of Maha Kumbh began on the occasion of Makar Sankranti today.
