Mahakumbh 2025: Know What Is 'Peshwai' In The Mahakumbh, And What Does It Symbolise That Attracts People From Around The World

Mahakumbh is a grand event symbolising the special significance of saints in Sanatan Dharma. The royal bath during the Kumbh begins after the procession of saints, known as 'Peshwai'.

Mahakumbh 2025: A grand Mahakumbh will be held in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, with preparations in full swing. The Mahakumbh will begin on Paush Purnima, January 13, and continue for 45 days until Mahashivratri on February 26, 2025, attracting devotees from around the world. During this time, the Triveni Sangam presents a mesmerising sight of faith.

Saints and sages also participate in the Mahakumbh, and their presence is essential for the event. The royal bath at Mahakumbh begins only after the procession of the saints. The Mahakumbh features the procession of akharas, groups of saints, where royal processions are led on elephants and horses. Let’s explore who leads the royal procession and who is permitted to ride in the royal procession.

What Is Akhada

It is important to first understand what an 'akhada'" is in the context of the Mahakumbh, as it is a term often heard during the event. Upon hearing 'akhada,' most people think of wrestling. However, in the Mahakumbh, an akhara refers to a group or order of saints and ascetics. In the 8th century, Adi Guru Shankaracharya sought to unite the ascetics for the preservation of the Sanatan lifestyle and named them akharas. The purpose of establishing akharas was to safeguard Sanatan Dharma. The saints, ascetics, and sanyasis of the akharas are knowledgeable not only in scriptures but also in the use of weaponry (shastra-astr).

Mahakumbh 2025 Peshwai Ceremony

In the grand religious event of the Mahakumbh held in Prayagraj, millions of saints and akharas participate. However, the procession of the saints is the main attraction of this massive event. To reach the Mahakumbh, saints and ascetics take out a grand procession, known as Peshwai, from their akhada. The procession includes bands, decorated elephants and horses, and royal chariots displaying a majestic procession.

The respected gurus, saints, or mahants sit in the chariots, while devotees or followers walk on foot, singing and dancing. The Peshwai includes the heads of the akhadas, Naga sadhus, and devotees or followers. The procession is considered a display of the grandeur, power, and discipline of the akharas. Devotees flock to the Sangam city to witness the Peshwai.

Mahakumbh Shahi Snan

The royal bath holds special significance in the Mahakumbh. It takes place on specific dates during the Mahakumbh, such as Makar Sankranti, Mauni Amavasya, Basant Panchami, Maghi Purnima, and Mahashivratri. It is important to note that in the upcoming Mahakumbh in Prayagraj, which begins on January 13, 2025, the tradition of the royal bath will be led by the Juna Akhada at the Triveni Sangam.

After the grand procession and Peshwai in the Mahakumbh, the saints and Naga sadhus of various akharas are the first to take the royal bath. Only after their bath do householders or common devotees dip in the Sangam. Therefore, the Peshwai is closely linked to the royal bath.

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