Year 2025 will mark the return of Maha Kumbh Mela, an event that happens once every 12 yearsMahakumbh to be held in Prayagraj has started 13 January 2025And will end on the occasion of Mahashivratri on February 26, 2025. This revered festival holds immense spiritual and cultural significance, attracting millions of devotees from all over the world.
During Mahakumbh, devotees engage in sacred rituals Kalpavas (spiritual practice), Ganga bath (holy dip in the Ganges), and chanting prayers. It is believed that these rituals cleanse past sins, ensuring a prosperous future and spiritual peace.
History of Maha Kumbh Mela
The Maha Kumbh Mela has its origins in the Vedic period, deeply rooted in mythology and Hindu beliefs. The main practice of the festival – taking a holy dip in holy rivers – is said to wash away sins and lead to moksha (liberation from the cycle of rebirth).
The significance of Maha Kumbh is closely linked to the mythological story of Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean). according to legend:
► The gods, weakened by the curse of sage Durvasa, sought help from Lord Vishnu to regain their power.
► Vishnu advised the gods to join forces with the demons to churn the ocean to obtain amrit (elixir of immortality).
►During the churning, a pot of nectar emerged, over which a fierce war broke out between the gods and demons to claim it.
To protect the nectar, Lord Vishnu entrusted the task of carrying the Kalash to his rider Garuda. As Garuda flew in the sky, drops of nectar fell on four places: Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain and Nashik. These places became sacred sites where the Kumbh Mela is held.
Why is Kumbh Mela organized every 12 years?
The war for the nectar between the gods and the demons lasted for 12 divine days, equivalent to 12 human years. Therefore, the Kumbh Mela is organized every 12 years at these four holy places. Notably, it is believed that Prayagraj is the place where the divine essence of Amrit merges into the Ganga, making it the focal point of the festival.
Spiritual and cultural importance of Mahakumbh
The Maha Kumbh Mela is more than just a festival; It is a journey of faith, devotion and spiritual awakening. Millions of people gather to take a dip in the holy Ganges, seeking forgiveness for their sins and renewing their relationship with the divine. The festival also serves as a confluence of Hindu traditions, rituals and teachings, affirming the eternal values of peace, unity and devotion.
As Maha Kumbh 2025 approaches, it invites devotees to immerse themselves in its deep spiritual energy, honoring the ancient legend of the churning of the ocean and the eternal quest for liberation and enlightenment.
