Kumbh Shahi Snan: 2 Crore devotees to take holy dip on Basant Panchami

Prayagraj: The kumbh mela commenced on January 15, is celebrating its third and the last royal bath on the occasion of Basant Panchami, where more than two crore devotees are expected to take a holy dip in the holy confluence, according to authorities.

There are three shahi snans (royal baths) and three parv snans during the Kumbh Mela.

Bharatiya Janata Party MP, Manoj Tiwari also took a holy dip, wearing saffron color with other saints. At the same time Shri Panch Dashnaam Juna Akhara, Shri Panch Dashnaam Aavaahan Akhara and Shri Shambhu Panch Agni Akhara returned to their camps after 'Shahi Snan'.

It is to be mentioned that, the saint of the Juna Akhara, Peethadhishwar Mahamandaleshwar Awadheshanand, was the first to take holy dip in the triveni.

Keeping the security in view, Uttar Pradesh Police and central paramilitary forces, were deployed at different crossings and parts of the city.

Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad (ABAP) president Narendra Giri said,''Shahi snan'' is the central highlight of the Kumbh Mela and the most important part of the celebration. It is only after the completion of ''shahi snan'' that people are allowed to take the holy dip.

Prior to Basant Panchami, shaahi snaans were held on Makar Sankranti on January 15 and Mauni Amawasya on February 4.

Allahabad Mayor Abhilasha Gupta Nandi told PTI, "Basant Panchami is the third and the last shaahi snaan of the Kumbh. By taking three dips on this day, a devotee gets the blessings of Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati rivers. Hence, it holds tremendous significance for devotees."

There are three shahi snaans (royal baths) and three ''parv snaans'' during the Kumbh Mela."

The Mahashivratri, on March 4, will mark Kumbh's last bathing day.