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Kumbh Mela, the largest gathering of Hindu pilgrims, is a celebration of the successful revolution of Brihaspati (Jupiter). One gets to witness devotion at the largest scale here as people of all age groups participate in the gathering.
The Kumbh Mela alternates between four sacred locations—Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain—on a rotational basis, determined by specific planetary alignments. At this event, people from all walks of life, including sadhus (saints) and Naga Sadhus who practice ‘sadhana’ and keenly follow a strict path of spiritual discipline, hermits and seekers of spirituality, and common people practising Hinduism visit for a holy experience.
Kumbh Mela 2025 Dates and Significance
The 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela will begin on January 13 with the Paush Purnima Snan and conclude on February 26 with the grand celebration of Maha Shivratri. This monumental event will be organised at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. As one of India's most revered ancient festivals, the Kumbh Mela is believed to be a gathering where devotees have the opportunity to cleanse themselves of past sins and attain moksha, or spiritual liberation.
It symbolises a time of spiritual renewal and rebirth. During certain days of the festival, the alignment of planets is believed to enhance spiritual energy, making the occasion especially significant for religious rituals and practices at the sacred site.
Some of the rituals that are followed during this religious festival are shahi snan (bath), sankirtan and bhajans, yoga meditation and spiritual discourse. Each of them has its significance in creating a spiritually enriching experience, bringing together faith, culture, and devotion on an unparalleled scale.
Food Camps and Annakshetras
Kumbh Mela, the grand spiritual pilgrimage, is not only a convergence of souls but also a celebration of divine cuisines that nourish both the body and the spirit. The culinary offerings at the ground are deeply rooted in tradition, showcasing the rich tapestry of the Indian foodscape.
One of the central aspects of Kumbh Mela’s food culture is the concept of “Annakshetras” or food camps. These are community kitchens where volunteers and religious organisations provide free meals to pilgrims, ensuring that no one goes hungry. The act of serving food in these camps holds deep spiritual significance. The culinary offerings range from simple yet soulful meals served in community kitchens to elaborate preparations that reflect the diversity of India’s vast culinary heritage. These meals are more than just sustenance; they are a vital part of the spiritual ambience, offering pilgrims a taste of divinity through food.
The food at Kumbh Mela is predominantly sattvik, emphasising simplicity aligning with the spiritual practices of the pilgrims. Vegetarian dishes, prepared without onion and garlic, are commonly served. This includes dishes like khichdi, dal-rice, sabzi, and puri. Sweets like halwa, ladoo, and barfi, are offered to Gods as prasad and distributed among devotees. For almost a month, eating together at the Annakshetras and performing rituals builds a sense of community, unity, and equality among pilgrims.
