From Growing Crops on Heads to 45-Kg Rudrakshas: The Babas of Maha Kumbh 2025!

The Maha Kumbh 2025, hosted on the sacred banks of the Sangam in Prayagraj, is more than just a grand religious congregation; it is a spiritual carnival that draws millions of pilgrims, mystics, and seekers from across the globe. This ancient festival is a melting pot of devotion, culture, and faith, showcasing a kaleidoscope of practices and beliefs. Among the multitude of saints and ascetics who gather here, there are a few whose extraordinary rituals and eccentric appearances captivate the imagination of devotees and onlookers alike.

From donning 45 kilograms of Rudrakshas to performing penance in freezing cold water, these Babas are the living symbols of dedication and spiritual perseverance. Let’s delve into the fascinating stories of these mystics who embody the essence of Maha Kumbh 2025.

Sanyasi Geetanand Maharaj, popularly known as ‘Rudraksha Baba,’ is one of the most iconic figures at the Maha Kumbh. For over six years, Baba has worn 1.25 lakh Rudraksha beads on his head, a sacred adornment gifted to him by his devotees. Weighing a staggering 45 kilograms, this unique crown of devotion is a testament to the unwavering faith of his followers.

Hailing from Kot ka Purwa village in Punjab and associated with the Juna Akhara, Geetanand’s spiritual journey began in his childhood. Dedicated to his Guru at a young age, he studied Sanskrit in Haridwar and embraced monkhood by the age of 12. Today, his serene demeanor and dedication to the spiritual path make him a magnet for devotees, turning him into one of the Maha Kumbh’s star attractions.
While the Kumbh often draws seasoned saints with decades of spiritual practice, it also sees the emergence of young ascetics like Sadhu Gopal Giri and Nagar Jeetu Giri Maharaj. Associated with the Aawahan Akhara, Gopal Giri embraced monkhood at just seven years old, a remarkable display of early spiritual commitment.

Despite his tender age, Gopal Giri adheres to an intense regimen of meditation and penance. Barefoot and clad in minimal clothing, he braves extreme conditions with unwavering discipline. This Maha Kumbh marks his debut at the event, where he has arrived with his Guru and fellow disciples, inspiring countless onlookers with his youthful devotion.

Yogi Rajendra Giri Baba, also known as Khadeshwari Baba, has spent the past 14 years performing a unique form of penance—standing on one leg. Renouncing worldly life at the age of 12, Baba committed himself to this rigorous practice under the guidance of his Guru in Shri Panchdas Naam Juna Akhara.

For six years, Khadeshwari Baba performed Hatha Yoga as a form of Tapa Yagya, dedicating his austerities to the welfare of mankind. His towering commitment serves as a reminder of the lengths to which spiritual seekers go in their quest for liberation and service to humanity.

Harischandra Vishwakarma, widely known as Chabhi Wale Baba, is a seer whose unique practice involves carrying 20 kilograms of keys. Hailing from Raebareli, this mystic believes that the keys he carries symbolize unlocking the doors of the mind, leading to spiritual enlightenment.

Chabhi Wale Baba’s journey into spirituality began at the age of 16 when he renounced his home to fight societal evils and promote harmony. Inspired by Swami Vivekananda, he travels across India spreading messages of self-reflection and inner awakening, encouraging devotees to look within for spiritual answers.

Among the many Babas at the Kumbh, Mahant Rajgiri, affectionately called Ambassador Baba, stands out for his mode of living. This mystic has made a 52-year-old Ambassador car his home. The car, painted saffron as a symbol of purity and sacrifice, has accompanied him to nine Kumbh Melas, becoming an inseparable part of his spiritual journey.

Gifted to him in 1998, the vehicle is not just a means of transport but a spiritual sanctuary. Parked near his hut on the banks of the Sangam, the car continues to intrigue visitors who are drawn to Baba’s message of simplicity and detachment from material possessions.

At 4 a.m. every day, Naga Sadhu Pramod Giri Maharaj begins his arduous ritual of bathing with freezing cold water from 61 pots. This symbolic act, followed by meditation by the fire, reflects his unwavering dedication to spiritual discipline. Associated with Hatha Yoga practices, Pramod Giri’s austerities are performed for the welfare of humanity.

During the Maha Kumbh, his routine culminates in a grand ritual involving 108 pots of water on the final day. Despite the grueling nature of his practices, Giri remains a beacon of resilience and commitment, inspiring all who witness his devotion.

Amarjeet, or Anaaj Wale Baba, has taken the concept of Hatha Yoga to an eco-friendly level by growing crops like wheat and millet on his head. For the past 14 years, Baba has used this practice to spread messages of greenery and world peace.

At Maha Kumbh, devotees eagerly await Mauni Amavasya, when Baba harvests the crops and distributes them as prasad, symbolizing harmony and virtue. His unique sadhana not only captivates onlookers but also emphasizes the importance of living in harmony with nature.

For over a decade, Radhe Puri Baba has kept his right hand raised in a gesture of world welfare. This extraordinary penance, initiated in 2011, has left his hand numb and adorned with long nails, symbolizing his unwavering resolve.

Associated with Juna Akhara, Radhe Puri Baba’s silent yet powerful act of devotion reflects his commitment to the greater good, earning him admiration and reverence from devotees.

Known as ‘Chhota Dadu,’ Gangapuri Baba is a 57-year-old mystic from Assam whose life story is a blend of tragedy and inspiration. Despite his height of just 3 feet 8 inches, he has devoted his life to intense spiritual practices like Aghora Sadhna, meditating in crematoriums.

Having renounced bathing for the past 32 years as part of his vows, Baba plans a symbolic cleansing of his matted locks at the Maha Kumbh, signifying spiritual renewal.

The Babas at Maha Kumbh 2025 exemplify the profound diversity of India’s spiritual landscape. Each with their unique practices and stories, they remind us of the extraordinary lengths to which seekers go in their pursuit of spiritual enlightenment and societal welfare.

As the Sangam reverberates with chants, rituals, and devotion, these mystics serve as a living testament to the enduring power of faith and the boundless possibilities of the human spirit.