The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, a sacred pilgrimage, will be held in Prayagraj from 13th January to 26th February 2025, drawing millions of pilgrims for spiritual purification, cultural celebration, and unity.
- The word ‘Kumbh’ comes from the root ‘kumbhak’ (the sacred pitcher of elixir of immortality).
Overview:
Kumbh Mela is the largest peaceful gathering of pilgrims worldwide, where participants bathe in sacred rivers. It is held at four locations:
- Haridwar: On the banks of the Ganges.
- Ujjain: On the banks of the Shipra.
- Nashik: On the banks of the Godavari (Dakshin Ganga).
- Prayagraj: At the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati.
Types of Kumbh:
- Celebrated four times in 12 years.
- Ardh-Kumbh Mela: Held every six years at Haridwar and Prayagraj.
- Maha Kumbh Mela: Celebrated in Prayagraj every 144 years (after 12 ‘Purna Kumbh Melas’).
- Maagh Kumbh: Observed annually in Prayagraj during Maagh (January-February).
Historical Evolution:
- Ancient Roots: Originating in the Puranas, it recounts the battle between gods and demons for Amrit, with Lord Vishnu securing the pitcher.
- Early Development: Began during the Maurya and Gupta periods as smaller pilgrim gatherings, gaining prominence under Hindu rulers like the Guptas.
- Harshavardhana’s Contribution: The ruler of the Pushyabhuti dynasty initiated Kumbh fairs in Prayagraj.
- Medieval Patronage: Supported by dynasties like the Cholas, Vijayanagar Empire, and Mughals. Akbar promoted religious tolerance and honoured Naga Sadhus during the 1565 Mela.
- Colonial Observations: Documented by British administrators, including James Prinsep in the 19th century.
- Modern Significance: Post-independence, it symbolises India’s cultural heritage and unity, earning UNESCO recognition in 2017 as an intangible cultural heritage.
Significance:
- Spiritual: Bathing at the Triveni Sangam is believed to purify sins and grant spiritual liberation (Moksha).
- Cultural: Features devotional music, kirtans, traditional dances, and crafts showcasing India’s spiritual and cultural diversity.
- Astrological: Timed by celestial alignments of the Sun, Moon, and Jupiter. If held when a planet is in Leo, it’s called Simhastha Kumbh (at Nashik and Ujjain).
Rituals and Activities:
- Shahi Snan (Royal Bath): A ceremonial procession of saints and Akharas marking the event’s commencement.
- Akharas: Spiritual organisations established by Adi Shankaracharya to unify ascetics and preserve the Sanatan way of life.
- Types:
- Shaiva (worshipping Lord Shiva).
- Vaishnava (worshipping Lord Vishnu).
- Udaseen (founded by Chandra Dev, son of Guru Nanak).
- Peshwai Processions: Grand parades featuring saints on elephants, horses, and chariots.
- Spiritual Discourses: Sessions led by revered saints and spiritual leaders, complemented by traditional music, dance, and crafts.
