The Kumbh Mela or Kumbh Mela is the largest congregation of faiths, it takes place every 12 years where people from all over the world come to participate and take a dip in the holy river.
Meaning of Kumbh Mela
In Kumbh Mela, Kumbh means “pot” or “jar”. that’s mean “holding water”. And the word mela is used to mean “to unite, to join, to walk together” etc. So for these reasons Kumbh Mela means “union” around “nectar”.
The Kumbh Mela History
According to Hindu mythology, the Gods and Demons together created “Amrit” during the “Samudra Manthan” and both decided to divide the “Amrit” equally. The Gods and Demons gathered on the shore of the Ksheer Sagar. The churning of the Ksheer Sagar produced deadly poison, which was drank by Lord Bholenath (Shiva), and after many years, “Amrit” came out of the Samudra Manthan.
The gods gave the responsibility of protecting it to Brihaspati, Surya, Shani and Chandra. After which the demons chased the gods in a planned manner and during this time the drops of “Amrit” fell at 4 places, namely, Haridwar (Uttarakhand) on the river Ganga, Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) at the confluence of three rivers Ganga, Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh) on the river Shipra and Nasik (Maharashtra) on the river Godavari.
There are beliefs that due to the falling of a few drops of “Amrit”, these places have acquired powers and after that a fierce war took place between the Gods and Demons for “Amrit”. This war lasted for 12 divine days which is considered equal to 12 years for the earth. That is why Kumbh Mela is organised once in 12 years.
The real reason why pilgrims take bath in Kumbh Mela is that according to Hindu beliefs, it is said that during this time rivers turn into “Amrit”
Upcoming Kumbh will be in Prayagraj from date 13 January 2025 to 26 February 2025.
Some Interesting Facts About Kumbh Mela
- This date is chosen based on the mystical position of the Sun, Moon and Jupiter.
- The “Shahi Snan” of Kumbh Mela or the first bath in Kumbh Mela is done by the “saints” at 3 am and only after this everyone is allowed to take bath.
- This fair features performances by “Sadhus” of various sects, including “Naga Sadhus”, who renounce worldly life and practice extreme penance.
- Religious Lectures, Bhajans, Religious Songs and Spiritual Conversations are held, which attract scholars and devotees.
- It is also an intagnible cultural heritage recongnized by UNESCO.
Types of Kumbh Melas in India
- Maha Kumbh Mela
Frequency: Once every 144 years
Location: Prayagraj - Purna Kumbh Mela (Full Kumbh Mela)
Frequency: Once every 12 years
Location: Rotating (Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, Nashik) - Ardh Kumbh Mela (Half Kumbh Mela)
Frequency: Once every 6 years
Location: Prayagraj, Haridwar - Kumbh Mela (Mini Kumbh Mela)
Frequency: Rotates between four locations every 12 years.
Location: Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, Nashik - Magh Mela (Annual Kumbh)
Frequency: Annually
Location: Prayagraj
Frequently Asked Questions About Prayagraj Kumbh Mela
- When and where is the next Kumbh Mela?
This time Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) will host the Kumbh Mela from January 13 to February 26, 2025. - Is there any fee for entry into the Prayagraj Kumbh Mela?
No, there is no fee. - Are there facilities for foreign tourists at the Kumbh Mela?
Yes, there are special arrangements for international visitors, including guided tours, dedicated tents, and interpreters. - Are we allowed to take photographs and Videos at the Prayagraj Kumbh Mela?
Yes, but it is advisable to respect the privacy of all pilgrims and saints.
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