The Kumbh Mela is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world and rotates between four sacred locations in India: Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik. Each of these places holds immense significance in Hindu mythology and spirituality.
The Maha Kumbh Mela, a rarer and more auspicious version of the festival, occurs only once every 144 years in Prayagraj (once in a lifetime of human being), following 12 cycles of the regular Kumbh Melas. It holds extraordinary significance, drawing millions of pilgrims who come to bathe in the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers to cleanse their sins and attain spiritual liberation.
A special procession, known as “Peshwai”, marks the arrival of sadhus (holy men) from various sects or akharas to the event. These processions are vibrant and energetic, featuring traditional dances, chants, and rituals, creating a captivating spectacle for devotees and onlookers alike.
Who started it and When?
The Kumbh Mela origin is often linked to King Harshavardhana, who is believed to have initiated the association of the Kumbh Mela at Allahabad around 644 AD.
The 8th-century Hindu philosopher and saint Adi Shankara is traditionally credited with starting major Hindu gatherings for philosophical discussions and debates, which may have influenced the organization of such festivals.
Historical and Mythological Origins
The term Kumbh Mela derives from two Sanskrit words:
- Kumbh: Refers to the pitcher of nectar (Amrit) that was obtained during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the cosmic ocean).
- Mela: Means a gathering or fair.
According to Hindu mythology, during the Samudra Manthan, the gods (Devtas) and demons (Asuras) jointly churned the ocean to obtain the nectar of immortality. When the nectar was retrieved by Dhanvantari, the gods seized the pot (Kumbh) to prevent the demons from claiming it. In the ensuing chase, drops of nectar fell at four locations—Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik—making them spiritually significant. The battle lasted 12 divine days, equivalent to 12 human years, which is why the Kumbh Mela is celebrated every 12 years.
Types of Kumbh Melas & Its Locations
- Maha Kumbh Mela: Held only in Prayagraj, this occurs once every 144 years after 12 Purna Kumbh Melas.
- Purna Kumbh Mela: Celebrated every 12 years at all four holy sites.
- Ardh Kumbh Mela: Held every 6 years in Prayagraj and Haridwar.
- Magh Kumbh Mela: Also known as Mini Kumbh, held annually in Prayagraj during the Hindu month of Magh.
The venue is determined by the astrological alignment of Jupiter, Sun, and Moon in specific zodiac signs.
Where it is held?
- Haridwar: On the banks of the Ganges in Uttarakhand.
- Prayagraj: At the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers in Uttar Pradesh.
- Ujjain: Along the Shipra River in Madhya Pradesh.
- Nashik: Beside the Godavari River in Maharashtra.
Rooted in Hindu mythology and ancient Vedic scriptures, the festival commemorates the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), during which drops of the nectar of immortality (Amrit) fell at these locations. These sites are now considered spiritually charged and are visited by millions of pilgrims.
Rituals and Cultural Significance
- Shahi Snan (Royal Bath): The festival begins with a royal bath led by saints and sadhus from various akharas (sects). Only after their ritual bath are common devotees allowed to take a dip.
- Bathing Rituals: Pilgrims believe that bathing in the sacred rivers during Kumbh Mela cleanses sins, grants blessings, and paves the way for liberation (moksha).
- Spiritual Activities: The Mela is marked by Pravachans (discourses), Kirtans (devotional songs), and the distribution of Maha Prasad (sacred food).
Unique Features and Facts
- Recognized by UNESCO as an “Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity”.
- The Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj is the oldest among the four sites.
- The first historical mention appears in the Bhagavata Purana, with accounts by the Chinese traveler Hsuan Tsang during Harshavardhana’s reign (629-645 CE).
- The festival generates significant economic activity, offering employment to thousands of people.
The Essence of Kumbh Mela
The Kumbh Mela is more than a religious gathering; it is a celebration of India’s cultural, spiritual, and historical heritage. It symbolizes unity in diversity, drawing millions of devotees and spiritual leaders from around the world. Rooted in mythology, the festival continues to inspire faith and devotion, standing as a testament to the enduring power of tradition.