The Kumbh Mela is one of the largest and most ancient religious gatherings in the world. It is a Hindu pilgrimage festival celebrated at four sacred riverside locations in India: Prayagraj (Allahabad), Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik. The history of Kumbh Mela dates back thousands of years, with its origins rooted in Hindu mythology and historical records.
The Kumbh Mela is linked to the ancient Hindu legend of the Samudra Manthan (Churning of the Ocean of Milk), which is mentioned in Hindu scriptures like the Vishnu Purana, Bhagavata Purana, and Mahabharata.
The Legend of Amrit (Nectar of Immortality)
- According to the legend, the Devas (gods) and Asuras (demons) churned the ocean to obtain Amrit, the nectar of immortality.
- During this process, a divine being called Dhanvantari emerged from the ocean, carrying a Kumbh (pot) of Amrit.
- Fearing that the demons would take the nectar, the gods entrusted Garuda (Vishnu’s eagle) with protecting it.
- In the ensuing battle between gods and demons, drops of Amrit spilled at four places on Earth:
- Prayagraj (Allahabad)
- Haridwar
- Ujjain
- Nashik
- These four locations became the sacred sites where Kumbh Mela is held.
Historical Records of Kumbh Mela
The festival is believed to have been celebrated since ancient times, but the first recorded evidence comes from historical texts and foreign travelers.
Ancient References
- Adi Shankaracharya (8th century CE) is credited with organizing the Kumbh Mela as a major Hindu religious gathering.
- The Chinese traveler Xuanzang (Hiuen Tsang) (7th century CE) described a grand Hindu festival at Prayagraj, which is considered an early reference to Kumbh Mela.
Medieval and Mughal Period
- Mughal Emperor Akbar (1556–1605) recognized the significance of Kumbh Mela and promoted the festival, especially in Prayagraj.
- The British colonial government (19th century) documented the large-scale gatherings and later made efforts to regulate the event.
Modern Kumbh Mela
- Today, Kumbh Mela is held in a 12-year cycle at the four holy sites, with an Ardh Kumbh (half Kumbh) every 6 years and a Maha Kumbh (Great Kumbh) every 144 years.
- Millions of devotees, including saints, ascetics, and pilgrims, participate in ritualistic bathing in the holy rivers, seeking spiritual purification.
- The UNESCO recognized Kumbh Mela as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2017.
Conclusion
The Kumbh Mela is a blend of mythology, history, and spirituality, making it one of the most significant and grandest religious festivals in the world. It continues to attract devotees, scholars, and travelers, offering a glimpse into India’s deep-rooted religious traditions.
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