Why in News?

The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 began on January 13 and will conclude on February 26 in Prayagraj (UP), marking a 45-day spiritual event expected to attract over 400 million devotees.

Kumbh Mela Gathering at Prayagraj

Kumbh Mela

Meaning: The term Kumbh comes from Kumbhak (a sacred pitcher symbolizing immortality).

What is Kumbh Mela?

• The largest peaceful congregation of pilgrims on Earth.
• Devotees take a holy dip in sacred rivers at four locations
  • Haridwar: Ganges River.
  • Ujjain: Shipra River.
  • Nashik: Godavari River.
  • Prayagraj: Confluence of Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati.

Types of Kumbh

• Kumbh Mela: Held every 12 years at each location.
• Ardh-Kumbh Mela: Every 6 years at Haridwar and Prayagraj.
• Maha Kumbh: Once every 144 years at Prayagraj.
• Magh Kumbh: Annual event in January-February at Prayagraj.

Historical Significance

• Originates from the Puranas, describing the myth of the elixir of immortality (Amrit).
• Became prominent during the Maurya, Gupta, and Harshavardhana periods.
• Supported by rulers like the Cholas, Vijayanagara kings, and Mughals (e.g., Akbar).

UNESCO Recognition: In 2017, Kumbh Mela was recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, highlighting its role in preserving ancient traditions and cultural unity.

Guinness World Records (2019)

• Largest traffic and crowd management plan.
• Biggest public painting exercise under the "Paint My City" scheme.
• Most extensive sanitation and waste disposal system.