Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh – As the sacred Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 approaches, the spiritual heart of India is coming alive with thousands of devotees, saints, and sadhus gathering at the holy Triveni Sangam — the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Sarasvati rivers. Among the myriad spiritual practices on display, the extraordinary rituals of the Naga sadhus remain a profound highlight, especially their breathtaking demonstrations of Hatha yoga.
A prominent figure captivating the crowds is Naga Sadhu Pramod Giri Maharaj of Atal Akhara. Every morning, at precisely 4:00 a.m., despite the biting chill of January, Maharaj performs his awe-inspiring ritualistic bath using ice-cold water. The ritual begins with 51 pots on the first day, with the count increasing daily. On a recent morning, he astounded onlookers by completing his ritual with 61 pots of freezing water, a testament to his unwavering discipline and spiritual strength.
After the ritual bath, Maharaj anoints his body with ash, symbolizing renunciation, and immerses himself in deep meditation beside a sacred fire. Explaining the significance of his routine, Maharaj revealed that his practice is a form of intense Hatha yoga, undertaken for the greater good of humanity and the preservation of Sanatan Dharma.
“We perform these rituals for the welfare of humanity and society, without any selfish motives,” Maharaj said. “With a mala (prayer beads) in one hand and a bhala (trident) in the other, we are always prepared to uphold Sanatan Dharma. This is my ninth year of practicing this Hatha yoga ritual, and with the blessings of Guru Maharaj, we will continue.”
The Naga sadhu underscored the ancient traditions of penance and spiritual discipline that define their way of life. “For Naga sanyasis, tapasya (austerity) has always been our purpose. Our gurus walked this path, and we proudly carry forward their legacy,” he added.
While the traditional ritual bath spans 41 days, logistical challenges at the Maha Kumbh Mela have condensed the practice to 21 days this year. Maharaj meticulously detailed the process: “On the first day, we begin with 51 pots of water poured over me as I remain seated in one place. The number of pots increases daily, by two or three depending on the day. On the final day of the 21-day ritual, we will conclude with 108 pots of water.”
The profound dedication of Maharaj and his rigorous Hatha yoga practice has left devotees in awe, inspiring them with his unshakable commitment to spirituality. As the Maha Kumbh 2025 unfolds, rituals like these by the Naga sadhus add a remarkable dimension to the festival, showcasing spiritual endurance at its peak.
These ancient practices stand as a reminder of the timeless devotion and discipline that lie at the core of Sanatan Dharma. The Maha Kumbh Mela transcends being a mere religious festival, evolving into a celebration of spiritual resilience and humanity’s enduring quest for enlightenment.
(Reference: ANI)
