The Kumbh Mela- The World’s largest congregation of pilgrims

The Myth

According to Hindu mythology, the demi gods and the demons fought over the pot (kumbh) of immortality elixir (amrita) produced by the churning of the milky ocean. Lord Vishnu whisked away the Kumbh to the heavens before the demons got their hands on it.  As he flew the elixir heavenwards, a few drops fell on the four earthly sites : Haridwar on the River Ganges, Ujjain on the River Shipra, Nashik on the River Godavari, and Prayagraj, earlier known as Allahabad, at the confluence of the rivers Ganges, the Jamuna, and the mythical Sarasvati.

The auspicious dates

The entire ordeal, the flight and the following pursuit is said to have lasted 12 days, equivalent of 12 human years. Therefore, the Kumbh Mela is celebrated once every three years at each of the four sacred sites, making it a complete cycle of 12 years. Each site’s celebration is based on the astrological positions of the Sun, the Moon and Jupiter. During this time, the sacred rivers are believed to turn into primordial nectar, giving pilgrims the chance to bathe in the essence of purity, auspiciousness, and immortality. The regular Kumbh Mela is held every 3 years in rotation in all the four places. (It’s currently happening this year at Haridwar from Jan 14 – April 27, 2021) The Ardh (half) Kumbh Mela is held every six years at Haridwar and Prayagraj (Allahabad) (The next one will take place in 2025 in Prayagraj) The Purna (complete) Kumbh Mela takes place every twelve years, at four places Prayagraj (Allahabad), Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik. The Maha Kumbh Mela is celebrated at Prayagraj after 144 years (after 12 ‘Purna Kumbh Melas’). The last one was in 2001 and it attracted some 60 million people.

The Gathering

Pilgrims at the Kumbh Mela include Sadhus (holy men),  Nagas (who remain naked year-round or practice the most severe physical discipline), Hermits (who come out of their isolation only for these pilgrimages), disciples, curious visitors and foreigners also join in the mystical gathering.  Vast crowds of The Kumbh is a way of ensuring that the common people get to regularly meet and interact with learned Hindu ascetics.

The rituals

The Snan (spiritual bathing) in the holy waters of the river is the main ritual performed at the Kumbh. Taking a dip on the auspicious day during this holy period is believed to absolve people and their ancestors from their sins thus, releasing them from the circle of life, death and rebirth.

On these days, at sunrise, different groups of sadhus proceed in vibrant processions towards the Sangam, usually led by the Nagas. With each group adding to the fanfare with dance, chanting and other performances. Only after the bath of the religious orders, are the pilgrims allowed to take the holy bath, in the belief that the essence of the holy deeds and thoughts of the holy saints will also be transferred to them.

After taking the dip people visit the temples situated on the banks of the river or nearby places. Besides the Snan, there are several other events that take place during this period. Religious discussions, mass-feeding the poor and women along with devotional singing, cultural programs ranging from musical performances to traditional and folk dances.  The entire place is like a huge fairground with stalls featuring beautifully designed handcrafted items from artisans from all over the country. After taking the dip people visit the temples situated on the banks of the river or nearby places. Besides the Snan, there are several other events that take place during this period. Religious discussions, mass-feeding the poor and women along with devotional singing, cultural programs ranging from musical performances to traditional and folk dances.  The entire place is like a huge fairground with stalls featuring beautifully designed handcrafted items from artisans from all over the country. “An eternal life free of sins” is the promise that comes attached with the magnificent event of Kumbh Mela, and it is this promise that has made Kumbh Mela what it is today.  It has been inscribed on the UNESCO’s Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. A temporary tent city is set up at the Kumbh Mela to accommodate pilgrims and visitors. There are dedicated arrangements for foreigners, including special tourist camps with luxury tents for “glamping.” Be part of this incredible spiritual experience and let Tushita Travels be your guide!