What Is Maha Kumbh Mela. How It Started
By: NDTVNewsDesk
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The Maha Kumbh Mela will bring more than 400 million people to Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj over six weeks starting today, making it the largest gathering of humanity in the world
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The Kumbh Mela is held every three years in four cities on the banks of sacred rivers across India
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The one held once every 12 years in this cycle is known as Maha Kumbh Mela as it is considered more auspicious due to its timing and draws the largest gathering
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Devout Hindus believe taking a dip in the sacred rivers absolves people of sins, and during the Kumbh Mela
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The Kumbh Mela traces its origins to the Hindu text Rigveda and the word Kumbh refers to a pitcher containing the elixir of immortality
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It emerged during a divine event called the 'Sagar Manthan' or churning of the cosmic ocean
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A celestial battle over this elixir took place over 12 divine days, equivalent to 12 human years
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Drops of the nectar fell at four places - Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik and Ujjain - which became the venues of the Kumbh
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At the Kumbhs, devotees take part in grand processions and the 'Shahi Snaan' or royal bath when they take a dip in the sacred river
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The grand spectacle attracts millions of visitors who come not just to partake in the ritual, but also to see thousands of saints and hermits
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