The 45-day long Kumbh Mela festival, known as the largest religious gathering in the world, has begun in the Indian city of Prayagraj. The festival, held once every 12 years, has attracted an estimated 400 million attendees this year due to a rare astronomical alignment. With millions taking a holy dip on the first day, the festival has garnered international attention and can even be seen from space.
Kumbh Mela: The World's Largest Religious Gathering
The Kumbh Mela is a Hindu pilgrimage that brings together millions of people to bathe in the sacred waters of the Ganges River. It is considered the largest religious gathering on Earth, attracting an estimated 400 million attendees this year.
Background
The Kumbh Mela has its roots in the Hindu mythology. The festival commemorates the victory of the gods over the demons and the creation of the universe. According to legend, a few drops of nectar fell to Earth from a pitcher being carried by the demigod Garuda. The places where these drops fell became the four sites of the Kumbh Mela: Prayagraj (Allahabad), Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik.
The Festival
The Kumbh Mela is held every 12 years at each of the four sites. The festival lasts for about 55 days, with the main bathing days falling on specific auspicious dates. During these days, millions of devotees take a holy dip in the sacred waters of the Ganges.
The Kumbh Mela is a vibrant and colorful event. Devotees come from all over India and the world to participate in the rituals and celebrations. The festival is a time for spiritual renewal and purification.
Current Event
This year's Kumbh Mela is taking place in Prayagraj. The festival began on January 15th and will continue until March 4th. This year's festival is particularly significant because it is a "Maha Kumbh Mela," which occurs every 144 years. This year's festival is also expected to be the largest ever, with an estimated 400 million attendees.
Top 5 FAQs
1. What is the significance of the holy dip?
The holy dip is believed to purify the body and soul. By bathing in the sacred waters of the Ganges, devotees believe they can wash away their sins and attain spiritual liberation.
2. Why is the Kumbh Mela so crowded?
The Kumbh Mela is the largest religious gathering on Earth. Millions of people come from all over India and the world to participate in the rituals and celebrations.
3. How long does the Kumbh Mela last?
The Kumbh Mela lasts for about 55 days. The main bathing days fall on specific auspicious dates.
4. What are the different types of Kumbh Melas?
There are four types of Kumbh Melas: Ardh Kumbh Mela, Purna Kumbh Mela, Maha Kumbh Mela, and Aadi Kumbh Mela. The Maha Kumbh Mela is the largest and most significant type of Kumbh Mela.
5. What is the history of the Kumbh Mela?
The Kumbh Mela has been celebrated for centuries. The first recorded Kumbh Mela took place in 648 AD. The festival has been held every 12 years since then.
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