Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Understanding the significance of Akharas
What's the story
The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 commenced with the first "Amrit Snan" on Tuesday, on the occasion of Makar Sankranti.
The event took place at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, where the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers meet.
The ritual was performed by members of various Akharas, Hindu monastic orders that have traditionally been an integral part of the Kumbh Mela.
Akharas's role
Akharas: The custodians of Hindu traditions at Kumbh Mela
Thirteen Akharas took part in this year's Maha Kumbh, with the Shri Panchayati Akhara Mahanirvani and Shri Shambhu Panchayati Atal Akhara being the first to take the holy dip.
The monastic orders are classified into three categories- Sanyasi (Shaivite), Bairagi (Vaishnav), and Udaseen.
They have played a key role in preserving Hindu traditions since the 8th century, performing important rituals like the "Amrit Snan."
Akhara hierarchy
Hierarchical structure and social contributions of akharas
The organizational structure of an Akhara is hierarchical, led by a Mahant or Acharya who looks after spiritual and administrative duties.
Roles such as Mahamandaleshwar have a lot of influence in these institutions.
Training in these institutions is rigorous, combining spiritual practices with physical exercises like traditional Indian wrestling.
Apart from preserving ancient spiritual traditions, Akharas also engage in social activities such as education and healthcare.
Akhara leaders
Prominent Akharas and their leaders in Maha Kumbh 2025
The largest of the 13 groups is the Juna Akhara, which follows Shaivism under Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Swami Avdheshanand.
Established in 904 AD, the Niranjani Akhara is known for its educated members and devotion to Kartikeya under Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Kailashanandji Maharaj.
The Mahanirvani Akhara venerates Sage Kapilmuni and is led by Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Swami Vishokananda.
A unique participant is the Kinnar Akhara, which gives transgender people a platform to express their spirituality within Hinduism's inclusive framework.
Tradition revival
'Amrit Snan' reinstated to honor ancient traditions
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath reinstated the term "Amrit Snan" to honor ancient traditions, replacing "Shahi Snan."
This change aims to revive the sanctity of original nomenclature without creating religious divides.
Historical conflicts over the bathing order have been resolved through institutional arrangements by the Akhara Parishad.
The chariot of the Acharya Mahamandaleshwar of each Akhara leads their group during this ritual, followed by other officials in a specific order.