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.
