Naga Sadhus & Their Significance in First Amrit Snan Ritual

Millions of devotees gathered at the Triveni Sangam to take a sacred dip during the first 'Amrit Snan' of the Mahakumbh 2025 on Tuesday, 14th of January. The Naga Sadhus from 13 akharas were the 1st to immerse themselves in the Sangam at this auspicious event, followed by the general public. The Amrit Snan, where Naga Sadhus are given the first opportunity to bathe, is considered the main highlight of the Maha Kumbh Mela, as reported by India TV.

The 13 akharas are divided into 3 categories: Udaseen, Bairagi (Vaishnav), and Sanyasi (Shaivite). The Bairagi Akharas include Nirmohi, Digambar Ani, & Nirvani Ani; the two Udaseen Akharas are Naya and Bada; and the Nirmala Akhara. The Shaivite Akharas consist of Mahanirvani, Atal, Niranjani, Anand, Bhairav, Awahan, & Agni.

Monks from several “akharas” have been gathering at Prayagraj since the eighth century to perform the Amrit Snan. The order of the Amrit Snan, which later became a source of quarrel, and the month-long Kumbh festivities were organized by the akharas between the ninth and eighteenth centuries. While the akharas continue to hold importance, the Amrit Snan order is now officially recognized.

It is believed that the 1st to take the holy dip were the Naga Sadhus, who are considered disciples of Lord Shiva due to their intense penance and devotion to him. This tradition has continued ever since, which  symbolizes the spiritual significance and religious importance of Naga Sadhus, who are granted the first opportunity for the Amrit Snan.

Some another belief holds that other saints honored the Naga Sadhus as the protectors of religion by allowing them to take the first bath after Adi Shankaracharya formed a group to safeguard the dharma. They were given this privilege because they were followers of Lord Shiva, & this tradition has been preserved over time.

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