Kumbh Snan refers to the ritualistic holy bath taken during the Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. Devotees believe that bathing in the sacred rivers during the Kumbh Mela washes away sins and grants moksha (liberation).
Significance of Kumbh Snan
- According to Hindu beliefs, the waters of the sacred rivers are spiritually charged during the Kumbh Mela, offering purification of the soul.
- The event is linked to the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean), where drops of the nectar of immortality (Amrit) fell at four places: Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik.
- Bathing on auspicious days is believed to bring spiritual merit, good fortune, and liberation from the cycle of rebirth.
Locations of Kumbh Snan
The Kumbh Mela is celebrated at four places in India, rotating every 12 years:
- Prayagraj (Allahabad) – Confluence of Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers.
- Haridwar – River Ganga.
- Ujjain – River Shipra.
- Nashik – River Godavari.
Types of Kumbh Melas & Frequency
- Purna Kumbh Mela – Every 12 years at each of the four locations.
- Ardh Kumbh Mela – Every 6 years, held at Haridwar and Prayagraj.
- Maha Kumbh Mela – Once every 144 years (12 full cycles) at Prayagraj.
Main Bathing Dates (Shahi Snan)
During Kumbh Mela, there are specific auspicious bathing dates (Shahi Snan) when saints, sadhus, and devotees take a dip in the holy rivers. These dates are determined by astrological calculations.
Would you like information on the upcoming Kumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj?