A unique religious ceremony attracting millions from across the globe to witness the purifying energy of the celebrations, Kumbh Mela is held every 3 years in either of Prayag, Haridwar, Ujjain or Nasik. The location for the Mela relies upon the dynamics of astronomy and astrology apart from what follows from an old legend mentioned in the Samudra Manthan episode. According to the legend, the gods and demons fell into a battle for the possession of Amrit, the panacea to achieve immortality, and the same lasted for 12 days and 12 nights (equalling 12 human years). As a consequence, a few drops of this nectar fell from the Kumbha (Sanskrit for pitcher) on the above mentioned cities, hence consecrating them. Believed to have been imparted anagogic powers as a result, these places came to be worshipped by one and all, who would come here to take dip in the holy waters of the river(s) in each town. This act of faith is presumed to release one from the painful cycle of birth and death forever.
Over 75 million people have been recorded to have visited the holy gathering in 2001 to absorb the mystical capacities of these religious grounds. Thousands of ‘sadhus’ wrapped in saffron coloured sheets, their bodies smeared in ash, with a determination to achieve the pinnacle of devotion, is a common sight during the festival. Naga Sanyasis, monks believed to be preservers of faith, having renounced the world and all the worldly belongings including clothes, enchant the whole atmosphere with their presence. Religious discussions are held by prominent monks and are attended by huge masses. Other than that, devotional singing by the entranced devotees throughout the day is a must expect if you are visiting the festival. The departed souls are made offerings by their loved ones and are believed to be gladly received during this auspicious time. However ancient, the beliefs supporting this spiritual celebration are attached to high values in the minds and hearts of people even today.
Kumbh mela is celebrated every 3 years, the Ardh (half) Kumbh mela every 6 years, and Maha Kumbh Mela Festival every 12 years. Year 2013 is dedicated to Maha Kumbh Mela which, according to the zodiacal position of stars, shall be celebrated in Prayag. The dates and location decided as per planetary positions also make it scientifically beneficent to bathe in the holy waters at these locations. The ritual bath ceremony shall take place on the shared banks of the rivers Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati (believed to exist only on the spiritual plane of existence) So, prepare yourselves to float adrift in the spiritual waves of Maha Kumbh mela 2013 and cross over the boulevard to the unknown and the unexperienced reality.
Important Kumbh mela bathing dates for the same are:
Over 75 million people have been recorded to have visited the holy gathering in 2001 to absorb the mystical capacities of these religious grounds. Thousands of ‘sadhus’ wrapped in saffron coloured sheets, their bodies smeared in ash, with a determination to achieve the pinnacle of devotion, is a common sight during the festival. Naga Sanyasis, monks believed to be preservers of faith, having renounced the world and all the worldly belongings including clothes, enchant the whole atmosphere with their presence. Religious discussions are held by prominent monks and are attended by huge masses. Other than that, devotional singing by the entranced devotees throughout the day is a must expect if you are visiting the festival. The departed souls are made offerings by their loved ones and are believed to be gladly received during this auspicious time. However ancient, the beliefs supporting this spiritual celebration are attached to high values in the minds and hearts of people even today.
Kumbh mela is celebrated every 3 years, the Ardh (half) Kumbh mela every 6 years, and Maha Kumbh Mela Festival every 12 years. Year 2013 is dedicated to Maha Kumbh Mela which, according to the zodiacal position of stars, shall be celebrated in Prayag. The dates and location decided as per planetary positions also make it scientifically beneficent to bathe in the holy waters at these locations. The ritual bath ceremony shall take place on the shared banks of the rivers Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati (believed to exist only on the spiritual plane of existence) So, prepare yourselves to float adrift in the spiritual waves of Maha Kumbh mela 2013 and cross over the boulevard to the unknown and the unexperienced reality.
Important Kumbh mela bathing dates for the same are:
- Paush Purnima: 27 January 2013
- Ekadashi Snan: 6 February 2013
- Mauni Amavasya Snan: 10 February 2013 *this is the main bathing date
- Basant Panchami Snan: 15 February 2013
- Rath Saptami Snan: 17 February 2013
- Bhisma Ekadashi Snan: 18 February 2013
- Maghi Purnima Snan: 23 February 2013
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Maha Kumbh Mela Dates | Kumbh Mela 2013