Spiritual Travel
Kumbh Mela | Significance, Festival, History, & Maha Kumbh
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
- Also called:
- Kumbha Mela
Kumbh Mela, Hindu religious festival and the world’s largest public gathering. The 2019 event at Prayagraj attracted more than 200 million people, including 50 million on the festival’s most auspicious day. The Kumbh Mela, which translates to “Festival of the Sacred Pitcher” (kumbh meaning “pitcher” and mela meaning “festival”), is one of the most sacred pilgrimages for Hindus and is recognized by UNESCO on its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
The main festival is celebrated among four sacred sites in India, each located along the banks of a holy river, in a 12-year cycle. These sites are: Haridwar on the Ganges River in Uttarakhand, Ujjain on the Shipra in Madhya Pradesh, Nashik on the Godavari in Maharashtra, and Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh where the Ganges, the Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers converge. Each site’s celebration is based on a distinct set of astronomical positions of the Sun, the Moon, and Jupiter, the holiest time occurring at the exact moment when these positions are fully occupied.
Types of Kumbh Melas
The Kumbh Melas, each lasting several weeks, are observed at various times and locations according to the Hindu tradition. These gatherings hold great spiritual significance and attract millions of devotees from across the world. The frequency of the melas varies, some occurring annually and the Maha Kumbh Mela (“Great Kumbh Festival”) taking place every 144 years in Prayagraj.
Britannica Quiz
Hindu Holiday Quiz
| mela | occurrence | location |
|---|---|---|
| Magh Mela | once a year | Prayagraj |
| Kumbh Mela | once every 3 years | Haridwar, Prayagraj, Nashik, and Ujjain |
| Ardh Kumbh Mela | once every 6 years | Haridwar and Prayagraj |
| Purna Kumbh Mela | once every 12 years | Haridwar, Prayagraj, Nashik, and Ujjain |
| Maha Kumbh Mela | once every 144 years | Prayagraj |
History
Tradition ascribes the Kumbh Mela’s origin to the 8th-century philosopher Shankara, who instituted regular gatherings of learned ascetics for discussion and debate. The founding myth of the Kumbh Mela—attributed to the Puranas (collections of myth and legend)—recounts how the gods and demons fought over the pot (kumbha) of amrit, the elixir of immortality produced by their joint churning of the milky ocean. This churning of the ocean is widely known as the Samudra Manthana or Sagara Manthana. To prevent the demons from winning the elixir, enchantress Mohini, an avatar of Lord Vishnu, seized the pot and carried it to heaven. As she did so, drops of the elixir fell on the Kumbh Mela’s four earthly sites (Haridwar, Nashik, Prayagraj, and Ujjain). At the climactic moment of each mela, it is believed that the rivers at those holy sites transform into vessels of that primordial nectar of immortality that conveys benefits to pilgrims.
Another mention of the Kumbh Mela can be found in the accounts of renowned Chinese traveler Xuanzang, who documented the magnificence of the Kumbh Mela during his visit to India during 629–645 ce. His writings highlight King Harsha’s generous acts at the sacred confluence of rivers, where the king bestowed gifts and donations upon scholars and ascetics. King Harsha was also noted for organizing a grand quinquennial gathering at the holy confluence in Prayag (modern Prayagraj), during which he donated all his possessions.
The term kumbh comes from the Sanskrit word kumbha, or “pitcher,” but it is also the Sanskrit name for Aquarius, the sign of the zodiac in which Jupiter resides during the Haridwar mela.
Attendees
Attendees at the Kumbh Mela come from all sections of Hindu religious life, including sadhus (holy men), some of whom remain naked year-round or practice the most severe physical discipline; hermits, who leave their isolation only for these pilgrimages; and even silk-clad teachers using the latest technology. The religious organizations represented are as varied as social welfare societies and political lobbyists. Vast crowds of disciples, friends, and spectators join the individual ascetics and organizations. The holiest spot at the Kumbh Mela is claimed by the militant ascetic orders known as naga sadhus, whose members formerly made their livings as mercenary soldiers and traders. Although the Indian government now enforces an established bathing order, history records bloody disputes between groups vying for precedence.
Rituals and ceremonies
The Kumbh Mela is a confluence of diverse rituals and ceremonies, each contributing to the festival’s profound spiritual importance. These rituals offer pathways to purification, enlightenment, and communal harmony to the devotees.
Akhara
The term akhara is derived from the Hindi word for a wrestling arena and reflects the focus on both spiritual growth and physical discipline. Historically, akharas were centers of learning and defense, safeguarding Hinduism during societal changes and invasions. They protected sacred sites and provided structure for ascetics renouncing worldly life.
Peshwai procession
The commencement of the Kumbh Mela is marked by the Peshwai procession, a ceremonial entry of the akharas (traditional Hindu monastic organizations that blend spiritual and martial disciplines) into the festival grounds. Riding on elephants, horses, and chariots, adorned with traditional regalia, the saints and seers proceed through the streets, blessing onlookers. Rooted in ancient traditions, akharas preserve religious practices, philosophies, and physical training.
| akhara | beliefs and practices | role in Kumbh Mela |
|---|---|---|
| Niranjani | meditation, yoga, and sacred texts; focuses on purity and detachment | hosts spiritual discourses and rituals |
| Vaishnava | bhakti, yoga, mantras, and scriptures such as the Bhagavadgita; emphasizes devotion and service | offers kirtans (devotional singing), spiritual teachings, and rituals |
| Mahanirvani | asceticism, yoga, celibacy, and devotion to Shiva for spiritual liberation | rituals and processions that highlight Shaiva heritage |
| Juna | rigorous training, meditation, austerity, and scripture study for enlightenment | grand processions with sadhus, elephants, and music, marking the spiritual commencement of the festival |
| Kinnar | social justice, equality, and spiritual inclusion of transgender individuals | symbolizes diversity, challenges norms, and promotes acceptance, drawing widespread attention |
Arti
The evening arti is a devotional ritual that involves the offering of light to the deities by waving lit oil lamps, accompanied by hymns and chants. Performed on the riverbanks during the melas, the arti creates a spiritually charged atmosphere and exhibits the devotees’ veneration of the sacred rivers.
Snan (bath)
Devotees from all over the world travel to the sites of the mela to take a bath (snan, or snanam) in the holy rivers. The act of bathing is believed to cleanse the soul of all the impurities and sins and help attain moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death). At the heart of the Kumbh Mela lies the Shahi Snan (Royal Bath), considered the pinnacle of the festival’s rituals. During this ceremony, the akharas lead grand processions to the riverbanks. The naga sadhus, recognizable by their ash-covered bodies and renunciation of clothing, stand out strikingly, especially given their typically reclusive lifestyle. Their presence creates a remarkable spectacle amid the throngs of Hindu devotees. Their dip sets a sanctified precedent for millions of pilgrims who follow.
Yajnas (fire ceremonies)
Yajnas are sacred fire rituals conducted by priests and spiritual leaders. Offerings such as ghee, grains, and herbs are poured into the consecrated fire amidst the chanting of mantras from the sacred Vedic texts. These ceremonies aim to purify the environment, seek divine favor, and to maintain the natural order of nature.
Deep daan
As dusk descends on the most auspicious day of the festival, the ritual of deep daan (lamp offering) illuminates the riverbanks. Devotees light earthen lamps and set them afloat on the waters; this symbolizes the dispelling of darkness and ignorance while inviting divine blessings and inner enlightenment.
Stampedes
Despite being illustrative of India’s rich cultural and religious heritage, the Kumbh Mela has been marred by tragedy, notably stampedes and occasional violence, leading to substantial loss of life and raising concerns about crowd management and safety protocols.
One of the earliest and most catastrophic stampedes occurred during the 1954 Kumbh Mela in Allahabad (now Prayagraj), resulting in an estimated 1,000 deaths. Considerable security measures were put into effect; even so, subsequent Kumbh Melas have witnessed similar tragedies. In 2003, during the Nashik Kumbh Mela, a stampede led to the deaths of at least 39 pilgrims and injured more than 100 people. The incident was reportedly caused by a scramble among devotees to collect coins thrown by sadhus. A stampede at the 2010 Haridwar Kumbh Mela claimed seven lives (five women, one man, and an infant) and injured 17 people. Two individuals drowned in a separate stampede at the mela. A particularly tragic event unfolded on February 10, 2013, during the Kumbh Mela in Allahabad (now Prayagraj): a stampede at the railway station resulted in 36 fatalities and numerous injuries. At least 15 people lost their lives, and many others were injured during the Shahi Snan at the 2025 Kumbh Mela.
Volunteer camps
The phenomenon of people becoming lost from their loved ones has been reflected in some Bollywood films based on the lost-and-found formula. The “Kumbh Mele mein bichde huye” (“lost at the Kumbh Mela”) trope was used in the films Adhikar (1954; “Right”) and Do Anjaane (1976; “Two Strangers”).
The festival draws millions of pilgrims, and inevitably a large number of people become lost. The melas now run lost-and-found camps to aid those who have become separated from their companions. Operated by volunteers, these camps serve as a sanctuary for those who find themselves disoriented, offering not just logistical help but also emotional support. The scenes at these camps are a poignant mix of anxiety and hope. Some centers use modern methods such as computerized records and face recognition technology to manage the influx of missing persons. Some camps dedicated to women and children ensure the safety of the youngest and most vulnerable attendees.
For centuries, India’s temples have been more than architectural marvels—they are living repositories of history, faith, and community. With thousands of temples dotting the landscape, each with its own story, the experience of temple travel is as much about self-discovery as it is about art, culture, or devotion. In 2025, as spiritual travel and heritage tourism rise, India’s top temples are drawing seekers from across the world, eager to connect with the country’s vibrant tapestry of beliefs.
Why Temples Still Matter
According to a 2024 report by the World Travel & Tourism Council, heritage and spiritual tourism in India is projected to grow at over 10% annually, driven by a rising interest in experiential journeys, architectural wonders, and immersive rituals (WTTC, 2024). Unlike conventional sightseeing, temple visits offer a layered experience—inviting travelers to participate in age-old traditions, learn local history, and witness the convergence of the sacred and the everyday.
The Breadth of India’s Temple Landscape
India’s top 100 temples reflect extraordinary diversity—not only in architecture and ritual, but in the stories they preserve. From the intricate Dravidian towers of Tamil Nadu to the soaring shikharas of North India, from remote Himalayan shrines to sun-drenched coastal sanctuaries, each temple is a microcosm of its region’s spiritual and cultural identity.
While it’s impossible to cover all 100 in depth, here are a few that illustrate the range and resonance of India’s sacred sites:
Kashi Vishwanath (Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh)
One of Hinduism’s holiest shrines, Kashi Vishwanath stands at the heart of Varanasi—India’s eternal city on the Ganges. Pilgrims believe a visit here can liberate the soul. The temple’s bustling corridors, the rhythmic chants, and the morning rituals on the riverbank create an atmosphere thick with centuries of devotion.
Brihadeeswarar Temple (Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu)
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this 11th-century Chola masterpiece is celebrated for its massive granite tower and exquisite murals. Beyond its scale, Brihadeeswarar is a living center of Tamil culture—hosting classical dance festivals and daily rituals that have remained unchanged for centuries.
Jagannath Temple (Puri, Odisha)
Famed for its annual Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival), Jagannath Temple draws millions each year. The temple’s kitchen, reputed to be the largest in the world, feeds thousands of devotees daily, reflecting the ethos of service at the heart of the tradition.
Kedarnath Temple (Uttarakhand)
Perched high in the Himalayas, Kedarnath is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites. Accessible only on foot for much of the year, the temple’s remote setting adds to its aura of mystery and resilience. Many travelers recount the trek as a transformative journey in itself, marked by moments of solitude and awe.
Meenakshi Temple (Madurai, Tamil Nadu)
A riot of color and sculpture, the Meenakshi Temple complex is both a spiritual center and a hub of South Indian art and craft. Daily processions, music, and dance fill the temple grounds, making it a living celebration of the divine feminine.
Golden Temple (Amritsar, Punjab)
Also known as Harmandir Sahib, the Golden Temple is Sikhism’s most sacred site. With its gleaming gold dome reflected in the Amrit Sarovar (holy tank), and its community kitchen serving free meals to all visitors, the temple stands as a symbol of equality and hospitality.
Konark Sun Temple (Odisha)
Shaped like a chariot and adorned with intricate carvings, the 13th-century Sun Temple at Konark is both an architectural wonder and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors are drawn not only by its artistry, but also by the sunrise rituals and the annual dance festival celebrating Odisha’s heritage.
Virupaksha Temple (Hampi, Karnataka)
Located amidst the ruins of Vijayanagara, the Virupaksha Temple is an active pilgrimage site surrounded by UNESCO-listed monuments. Its gopurams (gateway towers) and mural-covered halls are a testament to South India’s artistic and spiritual legacy.
Kamakhya Temple (Guwahati, Assam)
Perched atop Nilachal Hill, Kamakhya is one of the most revered Shakti Peethas. Known for its powerful Tantric rituals and vibrant Ambubachi Mela, the temple is a focal point for devotees seeking blessings of the Mother Goddess.
Ranakpur Jain Temple (Rajasthan)
Famous for its 1,444 intricately carved marble pillars, this 15th-century Jain temple is celebrated for its harmony and craftsmanship. The cool, meditative interiors offer a striking contrast to the surrounding Aravalli hills.
Themes and Takeaways
Behind each temple lies a web of legend, ritual, and human endeavor. The experience is rarely just architectural—it’s participatory. Travelers are invited to join morning aartis, witness age-old festivals, and connect with local communities who are both guardians and storytellers.
A 2023 survey by India’s Ministry of Tourism found that 68% of international spiritual travelers value personal stories and hands-on rituals over passive sightseeing (Ministry of Tourism, 2023). For many, a single visit can spark a journey of self-inquiry, empathy, and respect for India’s living heritage.
The Journey Continues
From the snow-clad shrines of the Himalayas to the coastal sanctuaries of the south, India’s top temples are not just relics—they are dynamic spaces where history, faith, and culture meet. As spiritual travel evolves in 2025, these sites remain both gateways and destinations—offering the possibility of renewal, reflection, and a deeper sense of belonging.
Jaipur, July 19 (IANS) With its sweeping landscapes, sacred rivers, vibrant culture and world-class heritage, Madhya Pradesh is no longer just the ‘Heart of India’ — it’s becoming the heartbeat of global tourism.
This message rang loud and clear during the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board’s roadshow held at Jaipur’s Jai Mahal Hotel on Friday.
Speaking to a packed event of tourism stakeholders, filmmakers, and hospitality professionals from both Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, Additional Managing Director of Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, Bidisha Mukherjee, highlighted the state’s soaring popularity.
In 2024 alone, Madhya Pradesh welcomed 134.1 million tourists, with 70 million visiting for religious and spiritual experience, to Mahakaleshwar and Omkareshwar Jyotirlingas, Chitrakoot, Maihar, and Amarkantak, the sacred origin of the Narmada River.
But spiritual tourism is just one facet of Madhya Pradesh’s appeal.
“We want to showcase the hidden gems of Madhya Pradesh to the world,” Mukherjee said.
“From majestic temples to dense jungles, from tribal art to local cuisine — we’re creating experiences, not just sightseeing tours. We’re building a sustainable, immersive, and community-led tourism model that speaks to the soul of every traveller.”
In an interesting pitch, she proposed an exciting expansion of the iconic Golden Triangle tourism circuit which she said can work miracles if turned into an arch.
“Imagine tourists travelling from Agra to Gwalior, then exploring the Orchha-Gwalior-Datia belt,” she said.
“Those coming from Chittorgarh can easily explore Mandsaur, Ujjain and Omkareshwar — blending Rajasthan’s desert heritage with Madhya Pradesh’s water sports and adventure tourism offerings in a single trip.”
She also added that Madhya Pradesh is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites — Khajuraho, Sanchi and Bhimbetka — and 15 others on India’s tentative list, making up a quarter of the country’s UNESCO sites.
Madhya Pradesh also boasts a vibrant cultural identity, with tribal traditions like the Bhagoria dance, Gond paintings, and the Narmada Parikrama pilgrimage recognised on India’s National Intangible Cultural Heritage list, she said.
With titles like Tiger State, Leopard State, Cheetah State, and even Vulture and Gharial State, Madhya Pradesh has something for every nature lover, Mukherjee added.
It is a wildlife haven and with all these products, the number of tourists soared from 11.41 crore to 13.42 during 2023 to 2024, she said.
With the upcoming Tourism Policy 2025, Madhya Pradesh is also rolling out the red carpet for investors, she added.
The policy offers attractive incentives, including 90-year land leases, low stamp duties, and e-tender processes for accessing land, wayside amenities, and heritage properties.
Ultra-mega tourism projects with investments more than Rs 100 crore can even be allocated land directly.
The Madhya Pradesh Tourism officials also said: “It is not tourists who are flocking to Madhya Pradesh — the film industry is also being lured to the state. With a dedicated Film Facilitation Cell, shooting permissions are now fast-tracked. Since the launch of its film policy, more than 400 film and OTT projects have been shot in Madhya Pradesh, including Stree, Stree 2, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, Sui Dhaaga, Laapataa Ladies, Padman, Dhadak 2, Panchayat, Kota Factory, Gullak, and Citadel.”
No surprise then that the Indian government named Madhya Pradesh the “Most Film-Friendly State” for 2017–2020, she added.
Mukherjee concluded with a smile, saying: “Madhya Pradesh offers ‘sab kuch jo dil chahe’. The world is welcome to discover it.”
–IANS
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