Taponidhi Shri Anand Akhara Panchayati

Shri Taponidhi Anand Akhara Panchayati (also known as Taponidhi Shri Anand Akhada Panchayati) is one of the seven major Shaivite akharas—traditional monastic orders of sannyasis within Sanatan Dharma. Here’s a detailed overview:

• Founded: Around Vikram Samvat 856 (or 912 Vyavaharik), originally in Berar (present-day Vidarbha, Maharashtra)

• Base: Historically connected to Trimbakeshwar, Nashik; today closely tied with Prayagraj’s akhara zone.

• Deity (Ishtadev): Lord Surya (the Sun God) — worship takes unique prominence in their rituals.

• Dharm Dhwaj (religious flag) installation: Erected on a 41-foot pole at the akhara zone before formal entry .

• Chhavni Pravesh (cantonment entry): On Jan 6, 2025, the akhara made a grand ceremonial entry into the mela area — sadhus mounted on elephants, horses, camels, followed by flag bearers, drumbeats, and flower showers from locals and officials

• They were the seventh and final Shaivite akhara to enter before other groups like Vaishnav Bairagi, Udasi, and Nirmal akharas

• The procession—led by Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Balkanand Giri and president Swami Shankaranand Giri—included Aradhana rituals, blessings of Sangam pilgrims, and the ceremonial hoisting of the akhara’s flag on their new camp

• Amrit Snan (holy dip): Slated to follow Niranjani Akhara in the second group for Makar Sankranti (Jan 14), with specific timing coordinated for ritual bathing