Maha Kumbh 2025: The Maha Kumbh, one of the world’s largest spiritual gatherings, has begun today. The sacred event which is celebrated every 12 years draws millions of devotees from all over the world to Uttar Pradesh to experience the cultural significance and take a holy dip at the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers at Triveni Sangam. As Maha Kumbh 2025 kicks off, here are 10 amazing and unknown facts about the grand event:
1. Held Once In Every 12 Years
Poorna Kumbh or Maha Kumbh is celebrated every 12 years in four key locations that hold unique significance – Prayagraj (Allahabad), Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik.
2. World’s Largest Spiritual Gathering
The Maha Kumbh Mela sees millions of devotees coming from around the world to attend the grand event and take a holy dip in the sacred water. Over 45 crore people are expected to participate in 2025 in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.
3. Sacred Confluence Of Rivers
The Maha Kumbh takes place at the bank of ‘Triveni Sangam’, the sacred confluence of rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and ‘mystical’ Saraswati. A holy dip at this confluence is believed to cleanse one’s soul and past sins and pave the way to Moksha (salvation).
4. Astronomical Timing
The timing of the Maha Kumbh Mela is determined by the astrological alignments which is considered highly auspicious in Hindu traditions. The event occurs when Jupiter is in Aquarius and the sun and moon enter Aries and Sagittarius.
5. Global Recognition
In 2017, the Kumbh Mela was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
6. Historical Significance & Origin
The Kumbh Mela is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. It signifies the ‘Samudra Manthan’ (churning of the ocean) where nectar drops fell at four key locations – Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain.
7. The ‘Naga Sadhus’
The Naga Sadhus or naked ascetics are a unique group of monks who live in complete devotion and often take baths in cold water. A part of their spiritual practice can be witnessed at Maha Kumbh Mela where one sadhu was spotted wearing 11,000 rudrakshas around his neck and another grew crops on his head for years.
8. Symbol Of Unity
The Kumbh Mela brings people from all walks of life together regardless of culture, region, and language. The event is a unique reflection of India’s vibrant spiritual tapestry where diversity is celebrated.
9. Eco-Friendly Initiatives
In recent years, the Kumbh Mela has embraced environment-friendly practices like waste management, plastic bans, and sustainable tourism.
10. Foreign Devotees
The Maha Kumbh Mela attracts not only the Hindus but also devotees from across the world who come to witness the grand event and experience the unique energy here.
