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The Mahakumbh Mela, one of the most grandiose Hindu religious events, is currently unfolding in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. Beginning on January 13, 2025, it will continue until Maha Shivratri on February 26, 2025. This Mahakumbh, a once-in-144-years phenomenon, is a sacred confluence of faith, spirituality, and tradition that draws millions of devotees, saints, and seekers from around the world.

As a humble act of seva, I share my reflections on this awe-inspiring event, which transcends the boundaries of time, leaving an indelible mark on Sanatan Dharma and humanity.

Mythological Roots of the Kumbh Mela

Interestingly, the Kumbh Mela finds no direct mention in Hindu scriptures. However, ancient texts such as the Vedas, Puranas, Buddhist writings by Gautama Buddha, and historical accounts by Mughals and British document huge gatherings at Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain—the Kumbh Mela sites. Moreover, it is well documented in Hindu scriptures that our rivers, givers of life, are highly spiritual places.

The Legend of Samudra Manthan

One of the most enduring legends related to the Kumbh Mela is that of the Samudra Manthan (Churning of the Ocean). When the Amrit Kalash (pot of nectar) emerged, a fierce battle erupted between the Devas (gods) and Asuras (demons). In the struggle, four drops of nectar spilled onto Haridwar, Prayagraj, Nashik, and Ujjain, sanctifying these places eternally. However, this reference is not there in the present versions of the Purana; hence, it can be regarded more as a folklore or something that has been passed from generation to generation, undocumented; maybe it was documented initially but it was lost.

Garuda’s Divine Journey

Another legend features Garuda, Lord Vishnu’s celestial mount, who carried the Amrit Kalash to his master. Along the journey, Garuda paused at the four aforementioned locations, inadvertently consecrating them. While these narratives are not explicitly recorded in scriptures, they persist as folklore.

Garuda and Nagas

A third tale also refers to Garuda, who was en route to Nagaloka to free his mother from the clutches of serpent deities. During this journey, an attack by Lord Indra caused nectar drops to fall onto these sites, enhancing their sanctity.

Historical Significance

There is no direct mention of the Kumbh Mela in the Hindu scriptures, although the word “Kumbha” appears in various mantras. However, a proper interpretation of these verses makes it clear that they do not refer to the Kumbh Mela. Hence, there is no direct reference to the Kumbh Mela in the Hindu scriptures or in Sanatan Dharma (Hinduism). While the word “Kumbh” is used many times, its meaning is unrelated to the Kumbh Mela.

So, how is the Kumbh Mela linked to Hinduism and Sanatan Dharma, and why should every Sanatani be associated with it, directly or indirectly? This is due to indirect references in the Hindu scriptures.

There is a lot of historical literature and documented texts from ancient times that describe Hindus gathering by the holy rivers at particular intervals or after specific spans of time. These gatherings were celebrations of Hinduism, aimed at enhancing, protecting, and expanding the faith. The sacredness of our rivers is also emphasized, and these gatherings have been happening for thousands of years. They have been documented throughout history, with people collecting in four cities to take a dip in the holy waters.

The spiritual relevance of these four cities is also found in the scriptures. For example, Prayagraj is mentioned in the scriptures, and there is evidence of thousands of Hindus coming to Prayagraj to take a dip in the Sangam, also found in Buddhist literature. This is also referenced in the writings of many historical travelers who visited India for centuries. Even in Mughal texts, there are mentions of these gatherings. The term “Kumbh” or “Kumbh Mela” seems to have originated during the Mughal era. Various Mughal kings, including Emperor Akbar, are said to have made special arrangements with Naga Sadhus for the holy dip at Prayagraj and Haridwar every 12 years.

The planetary alignments for holding these religious gatherings are also mentioned in the scriptures. It is also historically documented how the Naga Sadhus defended Hinduism against attacks by invading or occupying rulers, particularly when large masses gathered at these places.

When I mention “indirect reference,” I mean that the astrological combinations of planets are discussed in the scriptures in relation to these huge gatherings at the four religious places. However, there is no explicit mention of the term “Kumbh Mela.”

Astrological Alignments

But one thing is clear – the Kumbh Mela is intricately linked to celestial events. The timing of these gatherings is determined by the positions of the Sun, Moon, and Jupiter, creating an astrological harmony believed to amplify spiritual energies. Its 12-year cycle is based on the 12-year orbit of Jupiter around the Sun. This is mentioned in the scriptures, though the term “Kumbh Mela” is not used. However, the scriptures do mention large gatherings and their timing at the four religious centers by the riverbanks, as outlined below. These gatherings occur in a sequential order, with one city after another, according to the astrological placements.

In Prayagraj, by the Triveni Sangam (the confluence of three holy rivers – the Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati) – When Jupiter enters Aries and the Sun and Moon enter Capricorn, the Kumbh Mela or large gatherings are held. Prayagraj is the main center for the Kumbh or these religious gatherings of Hindus every 12 years. There is also an Ardha Kumbh every 6 years, and every year there is a smaller mini Kumbh lasting around 6 weeks. Thus, this city is always prepared for religious Hindu gatherings each year.

In Haridwar, by the Ganga – When Jupiter enters Aquarius and the Sun enters Aries, the Kumbh Mela is held in Haridwar. The Kumbh Mela occurs in sequence according to astrological placements, but there is also an Ardha Kumbh every 6 years.

In Nashik, by the river Godavari – When Jupiter and the Sun enter Leo, the Kumbh Mela is held in Nashik. This follows the sequential order based on the planetary placements.

In Ujjain, by the river Shipra – When Jupiter enters Leo and the Sun enters Aries…

The Maha Kumbh is a special form of Poorna Kumbh, held once every 144 years. During this rare event, the Moon, Sun, Mercury, and Jupiter align, making the Maha Kumbh the most auspicious of all Kumbh Melas and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Marking 12 cycles of the Kumbh, it attracts spiritual vibrations that are unparalleled.

The Role of Akhadas in the Kumbh Mela

Kumbh Melas are closely associated with Akhadas, which are considered their soul. Every spiritual person or wandering monk, whether living in the jungles or traveling across India, must gather every 12 years at one of the four sacred locations.

These monks observe strict abstinence, dietary restrictions, and lifestyle practices. They bathe three times in the holy waters and follow other religious observations throughout the gathering, making it a deeply spiritual and rigorous ritual.

These religious figures – sanyasis and saints – belong to different Akhadas, which organize the Kumbh Mela. The history behind these Akhadas dates back to ancient times when Hinduism was being challenged by external forces. Adi Shankaracharya recognized the need for saints and sanyasis to receive both spiritual and physical (defensive/offensive) training to protect Hinduism. This led to the formation of Mutts or Ashrams providing such training, which were called Akhadas.

Today, there are 13 Akhadas in Sanatan Dharma or Hinduism, belonging to different sects. Seven are affiliated with the Saints and Sanyasis sect, three with the Vaishnavite sect, and the rest with the Udaseen sect. Each Akhada has its own Isth Devtas (deities) and traditions. These Akhadas have played a crucial role in protecting the religion, including safeguarding temples from destruction, as referenced in historical and religious texts.

During the Kumbh Mela, these sects are welcomed into Prayagraj with a grand ceremony where each Akhada hoists its spiritual flag or symbol. This purifies the atmosphere, and the city radiates positive vibrations.

The 13 sects also organize community food, boarding, lodging, and facilitate the free exchange of spiritual knowledge, which is vital for the survival and growth of Sanatan Dharma or Hinduism. Yoga training camps and mantra chanting sessions are held. These gatherings also serve as occasions where genuine sanyasis grant Sanyas to their loyal disciples, welcoming them into the Brotherhood.

The Mela is not just a religious ritual but also an event for the exchange of knowledge. Saints from various sects share their experiences from the past 12 years, enriching the spiritual base of the religion.

Beyond the Holy Dip

The Kumbh Mela is often misunderstood as merely an occasion for a holy dip in the sacred rivers, believed to cleanse sins and bestow moksha (liberation). These days, some deluded individuals arrive in grand, modern vehicles, park a few meters or kilometers away from the banks of the holy rivers, take a dip, and believe that they will achieve moksha. This is not how it works. Its essence runs deeper.

Hinduism is a Karmic-based religion; I have mentioned this many times in my previous posts. In Hinduism, your karma matters, and it will be shaped by your chart. What you gain from the Mela depends on your karma. Additionally, your mind must be clear, and your heart must be pure—this can be understood from your chart.

Therefore, if you follow the right procedures and take part in the holy gathering with the right intentions, you will surely move closer to attaining moksha or liberation. Alternatively, a realized saint or sanyasi might grant you Sanyas diksha, making you a genuine Hindu monk or sanyasi, and set you on the path toward moksha in future lives.

A Spiritual Awakening

The Mahakumbh is a testament to the enduring power of Sanatan Dharma. It strengthens faith, renews spiritual vigor, and unites millions under the banner of shared tradition. Even for laypersons, merely witnessing the convergence of monks, devotees, and celestial alignments can be a transformative experience.

So, as we stand in the presence of this cosmic event, let us immerse ourselves in its spiritual essence. The Mahakumbh is not merely an event; it is a celebration of divinity, a reflection of dharma, and a call to spiritual awakening.

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