General Knowledge: Important FAQs On Maha Kumbh Mela – News18

Last Updated:January 12, 2025, 10:28 IST

The Indian authorities organised the first Maha Kumbh Mela in January 1954. In Hindu scriptures and texts, the Maha Kumbh Mela was described as an event where deities descended on Earth to bless the devotees.

The Maha Kumbh Mela has become a buzzing topic recently because it is arriving after 12 Kumbh Melas. This year, the Maha Kumbh Mela will be observed from January 13 to February 26 in Prayagraj, Allahabad. The festival is a vibrant cultural celebration with its origin tracing back thousands of years. Let us take a look at some important FAQs about Maha Kumbh Mela:

What Does Kumbh Mela Mean?

The word kumbh is derived from the Sanskrit term kumbha, which translates to “pitcher.” It is also the Sanskrit name for the Aquarius zodiac sign associated with Jupiter’s position.

Maha Kumbh Mela Is Held At The Confluence Of Which Rivers?

The Maha Kumbh Mela is held at the confluence of three rivers: Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati. This confluence is known as Triveni Sangam.

What Is The Purpose Of Maha Kumbh Mela?

The Maha Kumbh Mela is the largest public gathering in the world. This massive congregation brings together ascetics, sadhus, saints, kalpvasis, sadhvis and pilgrims from diverse backgrounds.

What Are The Four Locations Where Maha Kumbh Mela Is Celebrated?

Here are the four places where the Maha Kumbh Mela is celebrated:

— Haridwar, Uttarakhand, on the banks of Ganges

— Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh on the banks of Shipra

— Nashik, Maharashtra on the banks of Godavari

— Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, at the confluence of the Ganges, the Yamuna, and Saraswati

What Are The Mythological Origins Of Maha Kumbh Mela?

The origin of the Maha Kumbh Mela is linked to the 8th-century philosopher Shankara. It is believed that he invited learned ascetics and participated in regular debates and discussions with them.

As per Hindu mythology, the Maha Kumbh Mela is connected to Samudra Manthan (the churning of the ocean). During the Samudra Manthan, when Lord Vishnu, disguised as Mohini, carried the pot of Amrit (nectar), the Devas (Gods) and Danavas (demons) broke into a war. In the chaos, four drops of nectar fell at Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik and Ujjain. It is believed that these drops were later transformed into sacred Tirthas (holy sites).

What Are The Rituals And Ceremonies Of Maha Kumbh Mela?

Peshwai procession: The Maha Kumbh Mela begins with the Peshwai procession, a grand ceremonial entry of the akharas. Akharas are traditional Hindu monastic groups that combine spiritual practices with martial disciplines.

Aarti: Devotees light lamps and diyas, offering them to deities during the evening arti.

Snan (bath): Devotees believe that taking a holy dip in the waters cleanses the soul of sins and impurities. It also helps them to attain moksha (liberation from the birth and death cycle).

Yajna (fire ceremony): Spiritual leaders and priests perform yajnas or sacred fire rituals by pouring grains, herbs and ghee into the holy fire. It is accompanied by chanting ancient Vedic mantras.

How Was Maha Kumbh Mela Celebrated In The Past?

In Hindu scriptures and texts, the Maha Kumbh Mela was described as an event where deities descended on Earth to bless the devotees.

During the Gupta period (approximately 4th to 6th century CE), the Maha Kumbh Mela pulled large crowds as kings and rulers delved into the festive spirit. They constructed temples and bathing ghats along the holy rivers.

From the 12th century, kings and rulers across India contributed to the celebration by splurging at the event and performing rituals that enhanced its grandeur.

During British rule, citizens from all backgrounds attended the Maha Kumbh Mela to voice their protest and support the freedom movement.

How Was Maha Kumbh Mela Celebrated After Independence?

The Indian authorities organised the first Maha Kumbh Mela in January 1954.