Tags:
Maha Kumbh Mela 2025
- PIB, GS Paper 1: Indian Art Forms, Indian Heritage Sites
- GS Paper 2: Current Events of National/International Importance, Public Policy
Why in News?
The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 will be held in Prayagraj from 13th January to 26th February 2025. This event, considered one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, will attract millions of pilgrims for spiritual purification, cultural celebration, and unity.
Key Facts About Kumbh Mela
Etymology:
- The word ‘Kumbh’ derives from ‘Kumbhak’ (the sacred pitcher of elixir of immortality).
Overview:
- It is the largest peaceful congregation of pilgrims on Earth, where devotees take a holy dip in sacred rivers.
- Celebrated at four locations, each tied to specific sacred rivers:
- Haridwar (Ganges).
- Ujjain (Shipra).
- Nashik (Godavari or Dakshin Ganga).
- Prayagraj (Triveni Sangam of Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati).
Types of Kumbh:
- Annual Maagh Kumbh: Held every year in Prayagraj (January-February).
- Ardh-Kumbh Mela: Held every six years at Haridwar and Prayagraj.
- Purna Kumbh Mela: Held every 12 years at all four locations.
- Maha Kumbh Mela: Celebrated every 144 years (after 12 Purna Kumbh Melas) at Prayagraj.
Historical Evolution of Kumbh Mela
Mythological Background:
- The origins trace back to the Puranas, which describe the battle between gods and demons for the sacred nectar (Amrit).
- Lord Vishnu, in his Mohini avatar, secured the nectar from the demons.
Ancient Period (Mauryan and Gupta Periods):
- Began as smaller pilgrimages during the 4th century BCE–6th century CE.
- Gained significance under Hindu rulers like the Guptas, who elevated it as a spiritual and cultural event.
Medieval Period:
- Supported by dynasties like the Cholas, Vijayanagar Empire, and the Delhi Sultanate.
- Akbar (1565): Promoted religious tolerance and honoured Naga Sadhus, allowing them to lead the royal entry at the Kumbh.
- Harshavardhana: The king of the Pushyabhuti dynasty initiated the organisation of the Kumbh fair at Prayagraj.
Colonial Era:
- British administrators documented the festival’s scale and diversity, with James Prinsep chronicling its rituals in the 19th century.
Post-Independence Era:
- The Kumbh Mela represents India’s cultural heritage and unity.
- In 2017, UNESCO recognised it as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity for its enduring traditions.
Significance of Kumbh Mela
Spiritual Importance:
- A dip at the Triveni Sangam is believed to cleanse sins and provide Moksha (spiritual liberation).
Cultural Showcase:
- Includes devotional kirtans, bhajans, and classical dances like Kathak, Bharatanatyam, and Kuchipudi.
Astrological Timing:
- The event’s timing is determined by the alignment of the Sun, Moon, and Jupiter, making it auspicious.
- At Nashik and Ujjain, if held during Leo’s zodiac sign, it is known as Simhastha Kumbh.
Rituals and Activities:
- Shahi Snan (Royal Bath): Marks the festival’s start, with Akharas performing ceremonial baths.
- Peshwai Processions: Traditional processions involving elephants, horses, and chariots.
- Spiritual Discourses: Saints and spiritual leaders deliver discourses, alongside vibrant music, dance, and crafts.
Role of Akharas:
- Shaiva Akharas: Worship Lord Shiva.
- Vaishnava Akharas: Worship Lord Vishnu.
- Udaseen Akharas: Founded by Chandra Dev, son of Guru Nanak.
UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage
Key Points:
- The list highlights living cultural heritage that showcases cultural diversity.
- Recognised elements from India include:
- 2008: Kutiyattam, Vedic Chanting, Ramlila.
- 2010: Chhau Dance, Kalbelia Folk Songs, Mudiyettu.
- 2017: Kumbh Mela.
- 2023: Garba of Gujarat.
Significance in Contemporary India
- The Kumbh Mela promotes national unity and celebrates India’s rich cultural heritage, attracting global attention for its scale, diversity, and enduring legacy.
UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity
Here is the comprehensive table:
| S.No. | Intangible Cultural Heritage Element | Year of Inscription |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kutiyattam, Sanskrit Theatre | 2008 |
| 2 | Tradition of Vedic Chanting | 2008 |
| 3 | Ramlila, the Traditional Performance of the Ramayana | 2008 |
| 4 | Ramman, Religious Festival and Ritual Theatre of the Garhwal Himalayas, India | 2009 |
| 5 | Chhau Dance | 2010 |
| 6 | Kalbelia Folk Songs and Dances of Rajasthan | 2010 |
| 7 | Mudiyettu, Ritual Theatre and Dance Drama of Kerala | 2010 |
| 8 | Buddhist Chanting of Ladakh: Recitation of Sacred Buddhist Texts in the Trans-Himalayan Ladakh Region | 2012 |
| 9 | Sankirtana, Ritual Singing, Drumming, and Dancing of Manipur | 2013 |
| 10 | Traditional Brass and Copper Craft of Utensil Making among the Thatheras of Jandiala Guru, Punjab | 2014 |
| 11 | Nowruz | 2016 |
| 12 | Yoga | 2016 |
| 13 | Kumbh Mela | 2017 |
| 14 | Durga Puja in Kolkata | 2021 |
| 15 | Garba of Gujarat | 2023 |
This table lists the intangible cultural heritage elements of India recognized by UNESCO, along with their respective years of inscription.
