The Maha Kumbh Mela, hailed as the world's largest religious gathering, is a profound manifestation of Hindu faith and tradition. Held every 12 years, with the "Maha" (great) Kumbh Mela occurring after 12 such cycles (i.e., every 144 years), this festival draws millions of devotees to the sacred confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers in Prayagraj, India. 

The 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela commenced on January 13, marking a significant celestial alignment of the sun, moon, and Jupiter. Over the next six weeks, it is anticipated that more than 40 crore pilgrims will partake in ritualistic bathing, believing that immersing themselves in these holy waters cleanses sins and aids in attaining salvation. A striking feature of the festival is the participation of sadhus and ascetics. 

Astronomical Positioning 

Our earth is rotating on its axis, so it produces a 'centrifugal force' i.e. energy spreading outwards from the center. In the latitude of 0 to 33 degrees of the earth, this energy works on our system mainly in vertical and upward direction. Especially at 11 degrees latitude, the energies go straight upwards. Therefore, our ancient Gurus and Yogis did a lot of calculations and identified such places on earth where a particular event has a tremendous impact on human beings. Many of these places are at the confluence of rivers, and bathing there is believed to have special benefits. If a person stays there on a particular day, then doors of rare opportunities open for him. Therefore, people reach there to take advantage of these opportunities.

The Maha Kumbh Mela while it is deeply rooted in religious beliefs and traditions, many aspects of the Kumbh Mela can be understood through a scientific lens, particularly in the context of human psychology, sociology, astronomy, and the environmental sciences. The timing and location of the Kumbh Mela are determined by the positions of celestial bodies. The festival is held at specific intervals, based on the alignment of the Sun, Moon, and Jupiter in certain zodiac signs. 

There are 12 zodiac signs in Hindu astrology. The 12 zodiac signs represent 12 months, which are related to the time cycle and human life. This fair is organised when Jupiter and the Sun come in Aquarius. Apart from this, the 12-year cycle reflects a special energy change in human life. Ardh Kumbh Mela occurs every six years, Kumbh Mela occurs every 12 years and Maha Kumbh Mela occurs after every 12 cycles of Kumbh Melas that is, once in 144 years. Maha Kumbh aligns with the rare planetary positions when Jupiter (Brihaspati) enters Aquarius (Kumbha) and the Sun enters Aries. These cosmic alignments are believed to create a unique energy field, enhancing spiritual vibrations.

The Kumbh Mela takes place at the confluence (Sangam) of rivers like the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati. These rivers hold immense cultural and ecological importance. From an environmental perspective, rivers act as lifelines, supporting biodiversity and human populations. Research has shown that the Ganges water contains unique bacteriophages (viruses that kill bacteria) and other microorganisms that inhibit harmful pathogens. This could explain the river’s self-purifying properties and why it is revered. Studies have found that the Ganga water contains high levels of dissolved oxygen and antimicrobial agents, which may offer health benefits. Cold water immersion (as in the rivers during the winter Kumbh) has been linked to improved circulation, reduced inflammation, and enhanced mental clarity.

Venues for the Mela

The following places are the venues for the Kumbh Melas

1.Haridwar: The Maha Kumbh is held in Haridwar when Jupiter is in Aquarius (Kumbha Rashi) and the Sun is in Aries (Mesha Rashi).

2.Ujjain: The Kumbh Mela is celebrated in Ujjain when the Sun is in Aries (Mesha Rashi) and Jupiter is in Leo (Simha Rashi).

3.Nashik: The Maha Kumbh is held in Nashik when both the Sun and Jupiter are in the celestial constellation of Leo (Simha Rashi).

4.Prayagraj: The Maha Kumbh takes place in Prayagraj when Jupiter is in Taurus (Vrishabha Rashi) and the Sun is in Capricorn (Makara Rashi).

Management and Logistics: A Sociological Marvel

Organising an event of this magnitude is a colossal endeavor. Authorities have established a vast temporary city spanning approximately 2,500 hectares, equipped with 150,000 tents and nearly as many toilets to accommodate the influx of pilgrims. Security measures are robust, with 50,000 personnel deployed to ensure the safety of attendees. The festival is also expected to provide a significant economic boost, with estimates ranging between 250 crores to 300 crores.

Shahi Snan and the Akhadas

The origins of Shahi Snan are linked to the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean), where gods and demons fought for the nectar of immortality. It is believed that a few drops of this nectar fell at four places—Haridwar, Prayagraj, Ujjain, and Nashik—which became the sites of the Kumbh Mela. The Shahi Snan represents the divine blessing and victory of righteousness.

The 13 Akhadas (also spelled Akharas) are the backbone of the spiritual and organisational structure of the Kumbh Mela, the grand religious congregation held at four sacred locations in India. These Akhadas represent different sects of Hindu ascetics, primarily belonging to the Shaivite, Vaishnavite, and Udasin traditions. They are centuries-old monastic orders dedicated to the preservation of spiritual practices, the protection of Sanatan Dharma (Hinduism), and the guidance of devotees. During the Kumbh Mela, the Akhadas play a pivotal role, particularly in leading the Shahi Snan (Royal Bath), the most significant ritual of the festival. This event showcases their asceticism, spiritual discipline, and grandeur, making them a focal point of the celebration.

January 13, 2025: Paush Purnima

January 14, 2025: Makar Sankranti (First Shahi Snan)

January 29, 2025: Mauni Amavasya (Second Shahi Snan)

February 3, 2025: Basant Panchami (Third Shahi Snan)

February 12, 2025: Maghi Purnima

February 26, 2025: Mahashivratri (Final Snan)

The Maha Kumbh Mela is more than a religious event; it is a testament to the enduring power of faith, community, and tradition. The festival's inclusion in UNESCO's Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity further highlights its global cultural significance.

Wing Commander BS Sudarshan is a former Indian Air Force pilot with over 12,000 flying hours. He participated in Operation Pawan and Operation Cactus before he transitioned to civil aviation. A passionate writer, he has authored six books, including "Hasiru Hampe", appreciated by S L Bhyrappa, and the latest "Evergreen Hampi". He is a regular contributor to the Verandah Club.