Prayagraj Kumbh Mela 2019 - A Divine and Cultural Gathering

A sacred Hindu festival that attracts visitors from around the world, the Kumbh Mela is a spectacular sight. According to legends, demigods and demons were fighting for “amrit” or the elixir of life when a few drops fell into four places on Earth – Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain and Nashik. Depending on the placement of the planets, the sun and the moon according to astrology, one of these places is rumoured to develop mystical powers. People believe that being physically present in these places at this time grants them access to these mystical powers and that is why the Kumbh Mela is held. Every three years a normal Kumbh Mela is held, every six years is an Ardh (half) Mela and every twelve years Purna Kumbh Mela takes place. The Maha Kumbh Mela is held every 144 years. The last Maha Kumbh Mela was held in 2001 with over 60 million attendees.

The Kumbh Mela of 2019 will be held between 15th of January to the 4th of March. People from around the world come to the Kumbh Mela to heighten their spirituality and bathe in the Triveni Sangam a confluence of the sacred rivers – Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati, to wash off their sins. At this sacred Hindu festival, you can expect a range of devotees from mystical saffron clad Sadhus to hermits and many strict adherents to religious aesthetic practices.

Apart from the religious significance, there is also much to see during the Kumbh Mela. One of the most popular attractions is the Kalagram. This is a creative hub with 13 pavilions that have been constructed to look like a village. There are also many art and crafts and exhibitions as well as shops presenting wares from around the country. There are many cultural events that include folk and traditional music and dance performances as well as several spiritual events. Another way to enjoy the experience is on a cruise that runs on these ancient rivers. The CL Kasturba cruise even offers a cultural performance before dinner.

India is an ancient land with many cultural and religious practices and one of the most amazing is the Kumbh Mela. A place where you can meet people driven by faith and miracles from across the world, this is a festival of the heart as much as it is one of religion. If you plan to travel around UP or India, you can log on to www.odigosguides.com or download the Odigos App to see and explore more of the wondrous and diverse country. Book an India tour guide so you can know more about the multifaceted country and its people.

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