Kumbh Mela

News: Maha Kumbh Mela is being held in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. It is a celebration of spirituality, religion and equality. 

About Kumbh Mela

• The word Kumbh is derived from Sanskrit word Kumbh which means pitcher or pot. 
• It is believed that during the Samudra manthan event, churning of the ocean, a pot (Kumbh) of Amrit was brought forth.  
• When the pot of Amrit was being taken away from the Asuras, the drops spilled in 4 different locations around India. 
• These 4 locations- Haridwar, Prayagraj, Ujjain, and Nashik-Trimbakeshwar- became the places where Kumbh Mela takes place. 
• These holy places are located on the banks of rivers 
  • Haridwar-  Ganga River 
  • Prayagraj- Sangam of Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati 
  • Ujjain- Kshipra River
  • Nashik-Trimbakeshwar- Godavari River
• The location of Kumbh Mela is decided based on the relative positions of the Sun, the Moon and Jupiter. 
• Types of Kumbh: 
  • Magh Mela: It is an annual fair that attracts people from all over India.  
  • Ardh Kumbh: It comes once every 6 years. 
  • Purna Kumbh: It comes once every 12 years. 
  • Mahakumbh: It is believed to come only once every 144 years, and after the completion of 12 Purna Kumbhs.