Maha Kumbh 2025: Significance of the Final Holy Bath and Worship Rituals:

The Maha Kumbh Mela, which began on Paush Purnima (January 13, 2025), is now approaching its grand conclusion. This sacred event, known for its holy dips and acts of charity, has witnessed an astonishing 57 crore devotees taking a dip in the holy waters so far, with the numbers continuously rising. The final and most significant bathing day of Maha Kumbh is set for February 26, 2025.

According to religious beliefs, bathing in the holy waters of Sangam (the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mystical Saraswati) during Maha Kumbh washes away sins and grants liberation (moksha). To enhance the spiritual benefits of this holy dip, devotees should perform certain rituals to please the gods associated with the sacred waters.

The Role of Varun Dev: The Lord of Water

In Hinduism, every element of nature is associated with a deity. Varun Dev is revered as the god of water and the ruler of the oceans. Scriptures describe him as the preserver of purity in all water sources. It is believed that by his divine grace, bathing in sacred waters brings mental and physical peace.

Additionally, Maa Ganga is known as "Moksha Dayani" (the giver of liberation), and Lord Vishnu is believed to have taken his Matsya (fish) avatar in the waters. Thus, worshipping these deities before taking a dip in the Maha Kumbh is considered highly auspicious.

Sacred Rituals to Please the Gods During the Holy Bath

Steps for Worship Before the Dip

To receive the full blessings of the Maha Kumbh bath, devotees should follow this sacred ritual:

Meditate on Varun Dev and Maa Ganga

Before stepping into the waters, take Ganga water in your hands and invoke the blessings of Varun Dev through meditation.
Mentally offer prayers to Maa Ganga, expressing gratitude for her purifying grace.

Prepare a Copper Vessel for Worship

Take a copper vessel and fill it with Ganga water.
Add flowers, sandalwood, and Tulsi leaves to the water.

Chant These Sacred Mantras

For Varun Dev:
"Om Varunaya Namah" (ॐ वरुणाय नमः)
For invoking the presence of sacred rivers:
"Ganga Cha Yamune Chaiva Godavari Saraswati,
Narmade Sindhu Kaveri Jale Asmin Sannidhim Kuru.."
(गङ्गे च यमुने चैव गोदावरि सरस्वति।
नर्मदे सिन्धु कावेरी जलेऽस्मिन् सन्निधिं कुरु॥)
For Lord Vishnu:
"Om Namo Narayanaya Namah" (ॐ नमो नारायणाय नमः)
For Lord Shiva:
"Om Namah Shivay" (ॐ नमः शिवाय)

Take the Holy Dip

After completing the worship, take a plunge into the holy waters while continuously chanting these mantras.
Offer prayers for spiritual purification and the well-being of yourself and your loved ones.