Kumbh Shahi Snan: 2 Cr devotees to take holy dip on Basant Panchami

On the occasion of Basant Panchami, 2 crores devotees are expected to participate in the third and last ‘shahi snan’ at Kumbh Mela on Sunday. The festival of Basant Panchami heralds the arrival of spring and is dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of knowledge and wisdom. 'Shahi snan' is the central highlight of the Kumbh Mela and the most important part of the celebration. It is only after the completion of 'shahi snan' that people are allowed to take the holy dip. The auspicious Panchami timing is till 2.09 pm and taking the holy dip during this period and also making offerings to the needy hold special significance. Prior to Basant Panchami, shahi snans were held on Makar Sankranti on January 15 and Mauni Amawasya on February 4.