The Mahakumbh of 2025 is indeed an extraordinary and rare event, especially because of its occurrence once every 144 years. The special planetary alignment during this period infuses the event with a powerful energy that draws millions of people worldwide to Prayagraj.
Akharas are the pride of
Maha Kumbh. The Akhadas play a central role in the Mahakumbh. These groups, formed of ascetics, saints, and spiritual practitioners, are deeply rooted in India's spiritual traditions. Each Akhada has its own practices, beliefs, and traditions, but they all come together for the common purpose of spiritual growth, rituals, and maintaining the sanctity of the event.
Thirteen Akharas of Prayagraj
❀ Juna Akhara
❀ Niranjani Akhara
❀ Mahanirvani Akhara
❀ Atal Akhara
❀ Ahwan Akhara
❀ Nirmohi Akhara
❀ Anand Akhara
❀ Panchagni Akhara
❀ Nagpanthi Gorakhnath Akhara
❀ Vaishnav Akhara
❀ Udasin Panchayati Bada Akhara
❀ Udasin Naya Akhara
❀ Nirmal Panchayati Akhara
Juna Akhada
❀ This is the biggest Akhara of Shaiva sect. It was established in 1145 in Karnaprayag, Uttarakhand. The presiding deity of the Akhara is Rudravatar Dattatreya. The Juna Akhada, with its Naga sadhus, stands out for its extreme asceticism and physical renunciation, where sadhus literally shed all material attachments and focus on embodying the spirit of Lord Shiva.
Niranjani Akhada
❀ Niranjani Akhara was established in 903 AD. The favored deity is Lord Kartikeya. Their sadhus often become masters of sacred texts and philosophies, balancing a life of meditation with deep engagement in the world’s knowledge.
Mahanirvani Akhada
❀ Mahanirvani Akhara was established in 748 AD. The presiding deity of the Akhara is Kapil Muni. It focus on meditation, yoga, and inner self-discipline highlights the importance of mental and spiritual refinement, guiding practitioners on a journey of self-realization.
Atal Akhada
❀ Adi Shankaracharya had established Atal Akhara in 646 AD. Similarly, Atal Akhada offers simplicity in practice while deeply protecting Dharma, emphasizing humility, devotion, and ritualistic participation.
Awahan Akhada : Revered for its deep devotion to Lord Shiva.
Anand Akhada : Promoting joy and spiritual happiness through teachings.
Nirmohi Akhada
❀ Nirmohi Akhara was established by Ramanandacharya in the 14th century. The presiding deity of the Akhara is Hanuman ji. The Nirmohi Akhada's devotion to Lord Vishnu and its roots in the Vaishnava tradition is very interesting, especially considering its significant role in the Ram temple movement.
Nagpanthi Gorakhnath Akhada
❀ The Nagpanthi Gorakhnath Akhada, with its unique blend of Shaivism, yoga, and Tantra, traces its lineage back to the legendary Guru Gorakhnath, showing a deeply yogic and meditative approach to spirituality.
Udasin Akhadas
This akhada is the merging of Hindu and Sikh traditions, Udasin Akhadas emphasise meditation and social service. The three key groups are Naya Akhada, Bara Akhada, and Nirmal Panchayati Akhada.
Kinnar Akhada
The Kinnar Akhada, representing the transgender community, brings inclusivity to the Maha Kumbh. It highlights evolving spiritual diversity within Hinduism.
Each of these Akharas reflects different paths of spiritual practice and philosophy, making the Maha Kumbh a truly enriching experience for all who participate or witness it.
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