Astrological Insights on the Mahakumbh Dates and Further

Note: The purpose of this article is to inspire confidence and encourage everyone to attend the Mahakumbh pilgrimage while taking the necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enriching experience with Astrological understandings

Coincidentally, starting from 14 January  2025, when the Mahakumbh begins, the alignment of planets like Mars, Rahu, and Saturn—particularly during the Solar Eclipse on 29 March 2025—suggests a period of increased sensitivity in areas such as health, spread of virus, geopolitics, social stability, natural events, and transportation. While this alignment invites us to stay vigilant, it is an opportunity to embrace mindfulness and take practical measures to safeguard ourselves and others, especially in crowded spaces or vulnerable settings. It is a time for awareness, preparation, and collective care, encouraging us all to move forward with caution but not fear

The beautiful and vibrant MahaKumbh Mela 2025 is scheduled to take place in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India. It is set to begin on 13 Jan 2025  with the Paush Purnima Snan and will conclude on 26 Feb 2025 with Maha Sivratri.  This significant  and grand Hindu festival, held every 12 years, attracts millions of devotees seeking spiritual cleansing through ritual bathing at the Triveni Sangam—the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mystical and transcendental   Saraswati rivers.

 

Key Bathing Dates:

The MahaKumbh Mela includes six significant bathing days which are: three royal baths (Shahi Snan) and three main baths. While bathing on any day during the Kumbh is considered virtuous, the Shahi Snan days hold special spiritual importance.

 

The key dates for 2025 are:

• 13 Jan 2025 (Paush Purnima): This day unofficially inaugurates the Maha Kumbh Mela and marks the beginning of Kalpvasa, a period of intense spiritual practice observed by pilgrims.
• 14 Jan 2025 (Makar Sankranti – Shahi Snan): Makar Sankranti signifies the sun’s transition in the Hindu calendar and marks the start of charitable activities at the Kumbh Mela.
• 29 Jan 2025 (Mauni Amavasya – Shahi Snan): This day is considered highly auspicious due to favorable celestial alignments, ideal for a sacred bath in the holy river.
• 3 Feb 2025 (Basant Panchami – Shahi Snan): Basant Panchami celebrates the arrival of spring and honors Goddess Saraswati. Devotees take a holy dip and wear vibrant yellow attire.
• 12 Feb 2025 (Maghi Purnima): This day marks the conclusion of a month-long period of austerity for sages, with a holy dip believed to bring immense spiritual benefits.
• 26 Feb 2025 (MahaSivaratri): The final day of the Maha Kumbh coincides with Mahasivaratri, commemorating Lord Shiva’s marriage and offering a unique opportunity for spiritual growth.

These dates are considered highly auspicious for taking a holy dip, believed to purify the soul and absolve sins.

 

I wish all the pilgrims an enjoyable and spiritually uplifting experience that they will treasure for a lifetime.

 

Now coming to the Astrology influence, we start with  the Astrology Chart for Makara Sankranti, marking the Sun’s ingress into Capricorn on 14 Jan 2025, at 8:55:55 am   (New Delhi, India), the rising sign (Lagna) at this time is Capricorn. This ascendant signifies a practical yet intense environment, further influenced by the planetary aspects.

Key Timings and Safety Precautions:

1. 12  January 2025 – 21 January 2025:

1. • Health Crises: Risk of disease outbreaks (waterborne infections, viral diseases) due to Mars retrograde and debilitated in Cancer, and Ketu’s position in Virgo.
   • Geopolitical Tensions: Increased risk of aggression, terrorism, and military conflicts with Mars, Rahu, and Saturn aspects.
   • Transport and Infrastructure: Accidents and logistical issues due to Mars’ debilitated position, especially in crowded environments.
   • Natural Disasters: Possible floods, storms, or other water-related disasters.
   • Social and Civil Unrest: Risk of disputes or public unrest, especially around gatherings and large crowds.
   • Pre-effects of the Solar eclipse: Emotional upheaval, sudden changes, or crises involving national security, health, and finances. A sense of uncertainty and volatility may pervade the atmosphere.
2. 22 January 2025  – 6 February 2025:
   • Health and Epidemics: Continued heightened risk of health issues and virus spread. Breathing issues cannot be ruled out
   • Geopolitical Risks: Ongoing security risks, particularly border disputes and military aggression.
   • Social Disruptions: Misinformation and tensions, exacerbated by Rahu and Ketu’s influence.
3. 7 February 2025  – 15 February 2025:
   • Health Impact: Increased risk of epidemics or diseases due to ongoing Mars and Ketu aspects.
   • Financial Instability: Potential for economic disruptions linked to public unrest and geopolitical instability.
   • Terrorism/War: Ongoing threat of acts of terrorism or military conflicts.
4. 16 February 16 – 21 February  2025:
   • Health and Epidemics: The virus or disease outbreaks continue, exacerbated by Ketu’s connection to diseases.
   • Geopolitical Tensions: The risk of foreign conflicts and the economy could be further strained.
   • Natural and Environmental Risks: Ongoing possibility of natural disasters or environmental disruptions.
5. 1 March 2025 – 10 March 2025:
   • Health Crises: Epidemic/Virus risk continues with potential new outbreaks.
   • Transportation and Infrastructure: Increased risk of accidents related to transportation, especially in large-scale gatherings or events.
   • Natural Disasters: Potential for water-related disasters, like floods, due to Rahu in Pisces.
6. 29 March 2025 (Solar Eclipse):
   • Major Transformations: The eclipse can bring intense emotional upheaval, sudden changes, and challenges in global relations and public health.
   • Aggression and Conflicts: The square between Mars and key planets can heighten the risks of wars, terrorist attacks, and military conflicts.
   • Geopolitical instability: The eclipse suggests possible border disputes and international tensions.
   •  Please note the Activation Time of Solar Eclipse of 29 March 2025: 21 Jan 2025-23 Feb 2025, 1-10 June 2025,  1-8 July 2025
   • Solar Eclipse: Solar eclipse happens in the 8th house of the Eclipse chart in India. PLease note, Solar or lunar eclipses occurring in significant houses (6th, 8th, or 12th) can trigger or reveal the onset of pandemics.
7. 1 April 2025 – 30 April 2025:
   • Social Unrest: Risk of further social and civil unrest, particularly due to economic instability or public dissatisfaction.
   • Natural Disasters: Environmental risks such as flooding and storms may continue.
   • Geopolitical Tensions: Heightened conflicts, particularly in regions of strategic importance.
8. 1 May 2025  – 31 May 2025:
   • Health and Disease: Continued risk of disease/virus spread due to Ketu’s influence, especially in areas with high gatherings or poor sanitation.
   • Natural Disasters: The risk of natural calamities persists, especially those related to water bodies.
   • Terrorism and Geopolitical Instability: Ongoing threats of terrorism and military aggression in conflict zones.

Key Areas of Concern:

• Public health (diseases, epidemics, virus spread, breathing issues, health crises)
• Geopolitical risks (terrorism, border conflicts, military tensions)
• Financial instability (markets, resources, global economy)
• Transportation accidents (border issues, transportation accidents in road, train, sea or air due to Mars and other planetary afflictions)
• Social and civil unrest (labour strikes, societal insufficiency)

The above time periods suggest a period of heightened risks, particularly in public health, virus spread, military conflicts, and societal upheaval. Preparedness for unexpected events and careful attention to health and safety would be essential during this period.

 

If we draw the astrology chart for Makara Sankranti, marking the Sun’s ingress into Capricorn on 14 Jan 2025, at 8:55:55 am   (New Delhi, India), the rising sign (Lagna) at this time is Capricorn. This ascendant signifies a practical yet intense environment, further influenced by the planetary aspects.

Very first thing to observe is the Rising sign, which is Capricorn, ruled by Saturn. Saturn   is  situated in House 2 and is the Lord of Houses 1 and 2. As per KP, Saturn is the cuspal sub lord of houses 6 and 12, area signifying health issues, hospitalisation, expenses, Saturn is aspected by Mars.     Saturn’s influence in mundane astrology often signifies a period of slow progress, challenges, and the need for societal systems to overcome difficulties in order to maintain stability and justice. It embodies obstacles, limitations, and social frameworks, impacting the economy, material resources, and karma. Saturn governs areas such as public health, justice, time, aging, and leadership. Additionally, it highlights the importance of perseverance, discipline, and sustained effort. Mars, the planet associated with aggression and fire, rules the 3rd and 10th houses. It is positioned in Cancer, a water sign, where it is debilitated, retrograde, and placed at the cusp of the 6th house, which represents diseases and viruses. Mars also serves as the cuspal lord of the 3rd and 7th houses. Additionally, it is aspected by Rahu, Pluto, and the Sun.

From the above, we can see House 3, 6 and 7 play an important role in the next few months after Sun ingress Capricorn   on 14 Jan 2025.

Mars, being debilitated and retrograde, is causing disruptions by influencing key areas of the chart, including the ascendant (Lagna), the Sun, and the Moon. It also impacts Venus (situated in the 2nd house, ruling the 5th and 10th houses) and Saturn (in the 2nd house, ruling the 1st and 2nd houses), both of which are linked to public affairs, social harmony, and financial stability. This alignment suggests that this period may bring challenges, particularly regarding the well-being of individuals and society.

Please note that between 12-16 January 2025, Mars will be at its closest point to Earth while being positioned in a watery, debilitated, and retrograde state. Astrologically, it is often observed that when Mars remains in a sign and reaches its closest proximity to Earth, it is associated with difficult times and potential disasters.

 

Please refer to the solar eclipse chart for 29 March 2025, occurring at 16:27 hours IST in New Delhi, India. This date is astrologically significant due to three major events:

• the solar eclipse in the Uttarabhadra nakshatra (Pisces sign) at 14°47′,
• the onset of the Hindu New Year, and
• Saturn’s ingress into Pisces.

 

 

Please note the Activation Time of Solar Eclipse of 29 March 2025: 21 Jan 2025-23 Feb 2025, 1-10 June 2025,  1-8 July 2025

 

Please note that there will be Sun, Moon, Mercury-R, Venus-R, Neptune, and Rahu at the time of the eclipse, followed by Saturn ingress on the same day.   I have noted another configuration, Mars squares (Sun+Moon+Mercury-R+Venus-R+Rahu+Saturn), and at the same time Mars squares Ketu (disease and virus karaka) in Virgo (the sign of disease) in house 2 (Resources, Finance, and Values). Most of the planetssignify  houses 7, 8 and 10

 

Please note that during the eclipse, there will be the Sun, Moon, Mercury (retrograde), Venus (retrograde), Neptune, and Rahu, followed by Saturn’s ingress on the same day. Additionally, I have observed another configuration where Mars forms a square with the Sun, Moon, Mercury (retrograde), Venus (retrograde), Rahu, and Saturn. At the same time, Mars also forms a square with Ketu (the significator of diseases and viruses) in Virgo (the sign associated with diseases) in the 2nd house (representing resources, finances, and values). Most of the planets influence the 7th, 8th, and 10th houses.

• Solar Eclipse: Solar eclipse happens in the 8th house of the Eclipse chart in India. PLease note, Solar or lunar eclipses occurring in significant houses (6th, 8th, or 12th) can trigger or reveal the onset of pandemics.

 In Mundane Astrology

• The 2^nd House reflects the prosperity or financial instability of a nation, as well as its ability to manage its resources.
• The 3rd house reflects   Transpositions, Borders, Communication, etc
• The 7^th house reflects external relationships and opposition.
• The 8^th house signifies challenges and hidden forces affecting stability.
• The 10^th House shows the actions of the leadership and their impact on the nation.

 

 Notably, the solar eclipse will take place in the 8th house of the chart, indicating potential challenges and transformative changes for India.

I have observed on numerous occasions that the eclipse point (in this case, Pisces at 14°47′) often gets activated even before the eclipse occurs if it is aspected or transited by Mars or other planets. Based on my limited experience, when Mars enters retrograde motion and transitions into Gemini on 21st January 2025, it will aspect Pisces with its 4th reverse aspect, known as the’square’ in Western astrology. At the same time, Mars forms T-Square aspect with square Sat+Ven in House 2 in Aquarius sign and     Ketu in House 9 in Rasi Virgo

 

This activation of the soon-to-be eclipsed sign is likely to trigger aggression, terrorism, accidents, border disputes, espionage activities, finance, communication issues, and the possible spread of viruses or poison, particularly in water or other liquids.

Rahu’s movement through Pisces, a sensitive and unstable sign, creates a lot of uncertainty and tension. This placement brings disruptive energies and, when combined with Mars’s aggressive influence, makes situations even more volatile, like adding fuel to a fire. And Rahu would stay in Pisces till May 2025.

Astrologically speaking, Rahu and Ketu always move in retrograde motion, but at times, for a short period, they do get in direct motion. It has been observed that whenever Rahu and Ketu transition into direct motion, their effects tend to become significantly more pronounced and challenging.

According to the ephemeris (Ref: astroseek.com), Rahu and Ketu will enter ‘Direct’ motion during the following periods: 12-24 January 2025, 2-6 February 2025, 15-21 February, and 2-10 March 2025. During these intervals, Rahu will transit Uttarabhadra Nakshatra in Pisces (Meena Rashi), governed by Saturn and a retrograde Jupiter. Simultaneously, Ketu will traverse Uttaraphalguni Nakshatra in Virgo (Kanya Rashi), ruled by Mercury and the Sun. This unique planetary alignment suggests heightened karmic influence and transformative energies, particularly in areas governed by these nakshatras and their respective rulers.

12 Jan 2025-31 May 2025: These planetary movements suggest a higher risk of disturbances or unexpected events, especially during large gatherings. It’s a time to be extra cautious and well-prepared to avoid potential challenges.    Rahu associated with Mars and Saturn may cause challenges w.r.t Terrorism, Natural Disasters, Stock Market, Diseases related to viruses, worsening the geopolitical situation in the world.

Please note the Activation Time of Solar Eclipse of 29 March 2025: 21 Jan 2025-23 Feb 2025, 1-10 June 2025,  1-8 July 2025

Solar Eclipse: Solar eclipse happens in the 8th house of the Eclipse chart in India. PLease note, Solar or lunar eclipses occurring in significant houses (6th, 8th, or 12th) can trigger or reveal the onset of pandemics.

House 3 – Postal, Communication & Media, Transportation & Travel, Neighbouring Countries, Borders  & Relations, Military & Intelligence Operations, Trade & Commerce, and Education & Intellectual Climate

In mundane astrology, the 3rd house represents a nation’s ability to communicate, connect, and collaborate both internally and with its neighbours. It symbolizes the efficiency of transportation systems, the freedom and reliability of media, and the nation’s relations with bordering countries. Additionally, it offers insights into the intellectual and educational landscape, making it a crucial aspect for analysing a country’s infrastructure and social dynamics.

In the context of India’s foundation chart (15 August 1947, 00:01 hours, New Delhi, India), Taurus is the rising sign. The 3rd house is governed by the Cancer sign, which, in the current transit, is impacted by a debilitated and retrograde Mars. Since Mars rules the 3rd, 7th, and 12th houses, these areas are particularly afflicted.

The planetary influences present significant implications:

• Mars: Indicates a heightened risk of conflict, aggression, or potential issues with neigh boring countries. It also points to possible accidents related to transportation systems, such as buses, trains, airplanes, or roadways.
• Saturn: suggests delays, restrictions, or the need for structural reforms in communication and transportation infrastructure.
• Rahu/Ketu: highlights the likelihood of disruptions, misinformation, or sudden technological innovations, often accompanied by unexpected changes.

These planetary dynamics suggest potential challenges involving foreign entities, espionage, or covert activities. There may be risks related to border security, with the possibility of disruptions or acts of terrorism. Furthermore, concerns surrounding the safety and efficiency of transportation networks, as well as communication systems, may arise.

 

House 6 –  Public Health & Welfare, Epidemics, Viruses, Defence, Workforce, Agriculture & Livestock, National Services,

 In short, the 6th house in mundane astrology reflects the nation’s ability to handle health crises, labour issues, conflicts, and service sectors, as well as its relationship with enemies, both internal and external. We have Mars, Saturn, Sun, Moon, Rahu, associated with   the 6th house

 

Mars can cause conflicts, military aggression, and workforce disputes. Saturn can give Labour unrest, strikes, or delays in resolving health and workforce issues. Rahu/Ketu has the potential to bring epidemics, outbreak of diseases/viruses, covert operations, or unexpected national challenges.

If we go in detail, the sixth house in mundane astrology governs various aspects critical to a nation’s stability and welfare. It is associated with diseases, public health issues, and sanitation systems, often linking to the outbreak and management of epidemics or pandemics. It reflects the state of public welfare services such as hospitals, health campaigns, and labour welfare programs.

This house also represents the nation’s defence forces, including the army, navy, and air force, highlighting preparedness and conflicts related to defence matters. Mars plays a significant role here, influencing military operations and possibly labour strikes or unrest among personnel.

Additionally, the sixth house oversees the workforce, labour unions, and their conditions. Issues like unemployment, worker strikes, and labour law reforms fall under its purview. It is closely tied to national services, including government employees, civil servants, and healthcare workers, emphasizing challenges and developments in service sectors.

The house also signifies enmities, disputes, and conflicts, whether internal, such as rebellion and espionage, or external, involving relations with other nations. Matters related to agriculture and livestock, including food production, rural labour, pest issues, and crop diseases, are also governed by this house, highlighting challenges in sustaining food security.

Lastly, the sixth house addresses servitude and inequality, drawing attention to societal imbalances, oppression, and the struggles of marginalized groups. It encapsulates the critical aspects of a nation’s health, defence, labour, welfare, and socio-economic balance, making it a cornerstone of mundane astrology analysis.

 

House 7: Opposition, Partnerships, International Relations, Wars, and Terror Attacks

The 7th house lord, the Moon, is in conjunction with a debilitated and retrograde Mars. This alignment makes the 7th House vulnerable to conflicts, including wars and terrorism in various forms. It also indicates potential disruptions in international relations and partnerships. Additionally, there is a risk of foreign investments being withdrawn or mismanaged during this period.

Summary:

From 12 January  2025, to May 31, 2025, the alignment of planets such as Mars, Rahu, and Saturn, especially during the Solar Eclipse on 29 March 2025, indicates heightened risks in areas such as health crises, the spread of viruses, geopolitical tensions, social unrest, terrorism, natural disasters, and transportation accidents. The period calls for heightened awareness, preparation, and safety measures, especially in large gatherings or vulnerable locations.

Please note the Activation Time of Solar Eclipse of 29 March 2025: 21 Jan 2025-23 Feb 2025, 1-10 June 2025,  1-8 July 2025

Solar Eclipse: Solar eclipse happens in the 8th house of the Eclipse chart in India. PLease note, Solar or lunar eclipses occurring in significant houses (6th, 8th, or 12th) can trigger or reveal the onset of pandemics.

Ravinder Grover

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Disclaimer: ‘Without Prejudice’. I offer my insight to astrology solely based on my learnings of astrology principles and techniques, some of which I learned from the Sages of the highest order. These predictions are offered for guidance purposes only. I offer absolutely no guarantee on my calculations and analysis. These predictions are not intended to harm anyone by any means. I expressly disclaim all warranties, implied or contingent, for making use of these predictions, for incurring any loss, loss of profit, or in any manner. No notice or advice from anyone  will create any liability whatsoever