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The 13 Akhadas & Naga Sadhus at Nashik Kumbh 2027
These ancient monastic orders of Hindu ascetics are the backbone of the Kumbh Mela. They lead the grand Shahi Snan processions and have done so for over 1,000 years.
What is an Akhada?
Akhadas (also spelled Akharas) are ancient monastic orders of Hindu ascetics, originally established by Adi Shankaracharya over 1,200 years ago to protect Hindu dharma and preserve spiritual knowledge. The word "Akhada" means a place of training — these were originally military orders of warrior-monks.
There are 13 officially recognized Akhadas, categorized into three main sects: Shaiva (devotees of Shiva), Vaishnava (devotees of Vishnu), and Udasin/Nirmal. At Nashik, Vaishnava Akhadas bathe at Ramkund while Shaiva orders go to Trimbakeshwar — unique to this Kumbh.
The Peshwai: Grand Procession
Before the Shahi Snan, each Akhada conducts a Peshwai — a ceremonial entry into the Kumbh Mela grounds. Sadhus arrive on decorated elephants, horses, and golden chariots, accompanied by conch shells (shankh), drums, and chants of "Har Har Mahadev!"
The Naga Sadhus — ash-smeared, unclothed ascetics from Juna Akhada — lead the procession to the river and take the first dip. Their presence is believed to spiritually charge the water, after which millions of pilgrims follow.
Complete List of All 13 Akhadas
Shaiva (Sanyasi) Akhadas
Shri Panch Dashnaam Juna Akhada
Deity: Dattatreya
Largest & oldest. Primary home of Naga Sadhus.
Shri Panchayati Mahanirvani Akhada
Deity: Kapil Muni
Shri Panchayati Niranjani Akhada
Deity: Lord Kartikeya
Shri Panch Atal Akhada
Deity: Lord Ganesha
Shri Panch Agni Akhada
Deity: Fire God (Agni)
Shri Panchayati Anand Akhada
Deity: Lord Shiva
Shri Panchayati Avahan Akhada
Deity: Lord Shiva
Vaishnava Akhadas
Shri Nirmohi Ani Akhada
Deity: Lord Rama
Bathes at Ramkund in Nashik.
Shri Digamber Ani Akhada
Deity: Lord Vishnu
Shri Nirvani Ani Akhada
Deity: Lord Rama
Udasin & Nirmal Akhadas
Shri Panch Nirmal Akhada
Deity: Guru Granth Sahib
Blends Sikh and Hindu traditions.
Shri Bada Udasin Akhada
Deity: Shri Chand (son of Guru Nanak)
Shri Naya Udasin Akhada
Deity: Shri Chand
Plan to Watch the Shahi Snan Procession?
The Peshwai processions are among the most spectacular sights in the world. Check the official Shahi Snan dates to plan your visit.
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