Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh): The third ‘Amrit Snan’ of Maha Kumbh 2025 commenced on Basant Panchami, with more than 1.65 million devotees taking a holy dip in the Triveni Sangam as of 4 a.m. on Monday, officials said.

The sacred ritual began with Naga Sadhus leading the bath at the ghats, embodying the deep-rooted spiritual traditions of India. “Amrit Snan started on the Ghats by Naga Sadhus. The banks of Triveni are witnessing the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of India,” the Maha Kumbh administration posted on X.

Since the start of the Maha Kumbh Mela on January 13, over 340 million (34 crore) devotees have participated in the bathing rituals, according to the Uttar Pradesh Information Department. The number of Kalpwasis—devotees observing month-long spiritual austerities—has surpassed one million, adding to the religious fervor.

On the auspicious occasion of Basant Panchami, thousands of devotees gathered in Prayagraj to take a dip in the Ganga and offer prayers to Maa Saraswati. The influx of pilgrims at Prayagraj Junction was immense as the city prepared for the Amrit Snan.

Additional Mela Adhikari Vivek Chaturvedi said, “Today marks the Amrit Snan on Basant Panchami, and the procession of Mahanirvani Akhara and Shri Shambhu Panchayati Atal Akhara is heading towards the Sangam ghat. Proper arrangements have been made for the safety of devotees.”

Mahamandleshwars of various akhadas led processions toward Triveni Sangam, while police personnel also joined in prayers as saints and Naga Sadhus took the holy dip.

Basant Panchami, also known as Vasant Panchami, Shri Panchami, and Saraswati Panchami, marks the beginning of spring and falls on the fifth day of the Hindu month of Magha. The festival is dedicated to Maa Saraswati, the goddess of learning, music, and the arts. It also signals the start of Holi preparations, which take place 40 days later.

The Uttar Pradesh government has made extensive arrangements for the event, with many devotees praising the administration for ensuring a smooth and safe experience. The Kumbh Command and Control Centre is monitoring the event with over 3,000 CCTV cameras covering 25 sectors, 30 pontoon bridges, and sensitive barricades.

The Maha Kumbh 2025, which began on January 13, will continue until February 26. The event has already witnessed record participation and is expected to attract millions more from across the country and the world.