Kumbh Mela is a centuries-old Hindu festival that draws millions of pilgrims to sacred riverbanks in India. This massive gathering is considered one of the world’s largest and most significant religious events, attracting attendees from across the globe.
At its core, Kumbh Mela revolves around the idea of spiritual renewal and liberation. Hindus believe that bathing in sacred rivers during the festival can cleanse their sins and bring them closer to enlightenment. The event is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology, which tells the story of the Samudra Manthan – the churning of the ocean of milk by gods and demons in search of the nectar of immortality.
The festival takes place every 12 years, rotating between four key locations: Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad), Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain. Each site is tied to a sacred river, with pilgrims bathing in the Ganges, Godavari, or Shipra rivers. The largest gathering, known as the Maha Kumbh Mela, occurs only every 144 years, making it an even more significant event.
Kumbh Mela attracts people from all walks of life, including Hindus and non-Hindus alike. While the majority of attendees are Hindu pilgrims, the festival also features cultural performances, spiritual discussions, and religious processions. The event is a massive logistical operation, requiring authorities to establish temporary cities with infrastructure to accommodate millions of people.
The 2025 Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj is expected to draw around 400 million attendees, spanning over 12 kilometers along the riverbanks. Authorities use various methods to monitor crowd density and estimate numbers, including CCTV cameras, drone surveillance, and mobile phone data analysis.
In conclusion, Kumbh Mela is a fascinating and complex event that embodies the spirit of Hinduism and its rich cultural heritage. As the world’s largest religious festival, it attracts millions of people seeking spiritual renewal and liberation.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cqx932z7q4ro