The Maha Kumbha Mela is here again
This year's Makar Sankranti is extra special, with the Maha Kumbh Mela arriving in Allahabad
after the proverbial 12 years. Makar Sankranti marks the transition of the
Sun into Makar Rashi (Capricorn).
The highlight of the Maha Kumbh Mela is the snan, or bathing
ceremony in the holy Ganga river. In fact, at Allahabad, it is not just the
Ganga river, but three holy rivers converging, including the Yamuna and the
Saraswati. Because of the convergence (sangam), the city of Allahabad is also
called Sangam. It's a Hindu belief that a snan here will
literally wash away our sins.
The
Kumbh Mela is to be seen to be believed. More than 8 crore pilgrims are
expected to be there to participate in the event. It is the mother of all Hindu
festivals. People battle crowds and uncertain weather and lodging in a great
leap of faith, unmatched I'm sure anywhere else in the world.
Legend behind the Kumbh Mela
In Hindu mythology, when the Devas and Asuras fought for the vessel
(kumbh) containing theamrit, or elixir of eternal life, some drops apparently
fell at four places - Allahabad or ancient Prayag, Haridwar, Ujjain and Nasik.
The mystical power associated with these drops have elevated the religious
status of these places for the Hindus.
The basic Kumbh Mela is held every three years, the Ardh Kumbh Mela is
held every six years (at Haridwar and Allahabad) while the Purna (complete)
Kumbh Mela takes place every 12 years at four places - Allahabad, Haridwar,
Ujjain and Nashik.
Besides the usual riverside tents (from the ordinary to the luxury),
there are also Swiss cottages on offer this year for foreign celebrities,
inlcuding those from Hollywood.
By: Radhika Ravi Rajan on Jan 10, 2013
Wonderful pictures and very informative. Thanks for sharing your experiences.
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Kumbh Mela Dates 2013 | Kumbh Mela Festival 2013
Let people not fool the tourists and touristers not get fooled with all sorts of package to promote tourism. The holy Kumbh is meant purely for spiritual purposes where everybody in their best of understanding take dip in the holy Ganges. It is not a place for material enjoyment. Let people not be fooled. Those who are aware and understand its purpose are welcome and take part in the spiritual event. Let this not be commercialised by greedy people in the name of tourism.
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