The Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj came alive with vibrant spiritual energy early Monday morning. Naga Sadhus, following an age-old tradition, began their Amrit Snan (holy dip) at around 4 AM as part of the Maha Kumbh celebrations. Millions of devotees gathered on the sidelines, watching the sacred ritual from behind barricades along the designated path meant for the Akharas. The procession started with the Sanyasis, followed by the Bairagi and Udaseen traditions, as 13 Akharas from these three main orders took their turns to perform the holy dip.
The first Akharas in the procession included Mahanirvani, Shambhu, Atal, Taponidhi, Niranjani, Anand, Panchadashnam Juna, Panchadashnam Avahan, and Panchagni. These were followed by Akharas such as Panch Nirvani Ani, Pancha Digambar Ani, and Nirmohi Ani. Finally, at around 12:40 PM, Akhara Bada Udaseen, Naya Udaseen Akhara, and Nirmala Akhara completed their puja and took their Amrit Snan at the Sangam.
A unique aspect of the Nirmala Akhara procession was its connection to Sikh traditions. Unlike other Akharas that were led by Mahamandaleshwars, seers, and Mahants, the Nirmala Akhara’s procession was led by the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism. This Akhara traces its origins to Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism, and Guru Gobind Singh, the 10th Sikh Guru.
For the other Akharas, the processions were led by their spiritual leaders on beautifully decorated chariots carrying their Ishta Devathas (deities specific to their traditions). These Sobha Yatras (grand processions) featured a sea of saffron-clad seers and Naga Sadhus walking alongside the chariots to take the holy dip.
Interestingly, many foreigners who have embraced the traditions of various Akharas also participated in the processions. They joined the spiritual journey and took part in the Amrit Snan, adding a global touch to the Maha Kumbh celebrations.
