subject: Kumbh Mela- Millions by the Banks of Ganges [print this page] Kumbh Mela- Millions by the Banks of Ganges
India, a multicultural tapestry with a strong affinity for culture and religion even as it races to the frontier of becoming a world superpower. With a history flourishing ancient religions, myths and legends, India is also the place for the most fantastical display of religious faith on earth - the Kumbh Mela.
The pilgrimage begins on the banks of the Ganges River where millions of pilgrims make their way for the largest religious gathering on earth. Even non-pilgrims from across the world attend this mega event. The sacred festival takes place every twelve years at any of the four cities that confluence the banks of the river Ganges: Haridwar, Prayag, Ujjain and Nashik.
The name Kumbha Mela literally means festival of pot' and infers to a celebration of the discovery of the pot of nectar of immortality by the gods and is linked to one of the many colourful Hindu epics to which the event's rotation between the four cities every 12 years owes its relevance.
The event is mainly ceremonial with bathing at auspicious times on the banks of the river. Sadhus called the naga sanyasis appear naked except for their bodies covered in ash and powder; alternatively others will be donned in yellow robes. A group of sadhus known as the Shirshasins can be seen standing on their heads for long periods, meditating.Other activities that are common are the religious tte--tte and groups bursting into religious song. The significance of the ritual bathing is an act of cleansing of sins and the receiving of healing, salvation and rejuvenation. It is a practice that goes back into Vedic times.
Due to the popularity of the event, special arrangements are often made with ways and means to accommodate and transport the millions that flow into the city where the Kumbh Mela is held; with police stations and fire stations keeping a watchful eye over crowds.
One of the places for holding the Kumbh Mela, Nasik, has many exotic temples and bathing ghats. It has a rich history and ties to the Hindu epic Ramayana for being where Lord Rama and his wife Sita were exiled and also as the place where Lakshmana severed demon Ravana's sister's nose (nasika); hence the name Nasik.
If you are attending the Kumbh Mela and need a place to recover yourself in the comfort and convenience of a popular Nashik hotel that would be The Gateway Hotel Ambad Nashik. Accessible to the Nashik Road railway station, it is just 161 kms from Mumbai Airport and is surrounded by landscaped gardens, religious landmarks and bustling city life. It is also perfect for exploring Nashik.
