In the past, Ascetics and Saints in Akhadas had to kill while safeguarding the Dharma. The Shahi Snan has been given prominence over the armoured Ascetics and Saints in the Akhadas because a Ganga bath cleanses sins. Today, the custom is still practised.
The Rajyogi Snan (Shahi Snan), which features armed Ascetics and Saints, is regarded as the Kumbh Mela’s main attraction. Until the ascetics receive their Rajyogi Snan, the devotees do not take a bath (Shahi Snan).