The Kumbh Mela is one of the holiest gatherings of pilgrims in the world. Most people know of Kumbha Mela and its four holy locations, but a secret is that there is a fifth Kumbh Mela. Rajim Kumbh Mela is a popular gathering of Vaishnaviites, the followers of Lord Vishnu. Rajim is located near the convergence of the Mahanadi, Sondur, and Pairi rivers. The Rajim Lochan Temple is well known for being the venue of the Rajim Kumbh Mela.
Rajim Kumbh starts from Magh Purnima and continues for 15 days. Rajim Kumbh Mela in 2023 will start on 15th February and conclude on 02 March. Hordes of religious preachers and saints from every nook and corner of the country attend this fair.
History
Rajim has been a holy pilgrimage site for Hindus for centuries. The small town of Rajim in Chhattisgarh, located on the banks of the Mahanadi River, is renowned because of its rich historical past and its varied cultural heritage. The Rajim Lochan Mahotsav is the biggest spiritual event and attracts a large number of visitors. In recent years, a lot of initiative has also been taken by the Ministry of Tourism in Chhattisgarh to organize the Rajim Kumbh Mela on a more impressive scale.
Celebration
The Rajim Kumbh Mela is a visual treat. Holy saints, devotees and many colorful people gather at the same place for the divine festivities. This mela gives you a wonderful opportunity to witness the history, culture and attractions of Chhattisgarh.
Special puja is performed at 3.00 A.M. on the day that marks the beginning of Rajim Mela. Kuleshwar Mahadev and Shri Rajiv Lochan temples are visited by people and offerings are made. Devotees take a holy bath in Triveni Sangam. A ritual named ‘Kalash Yatra’ consists of rows of women bearing pitcher heads towards Mahanadi, and from there, they fill these pitchers and again carry them back to Mahadev Temple.
Many cultural programs are a part of the celebration. The festival also hosts performances by talented singers and dancers. Interesting dramas are also enacted by the local artists. Many folk artistes of exceptional talent are a major attraction in these functions held on the occasion of Rajim Lochan Mahotsav.
How to Reach Rajim
By Air
The Swami Vivekananda Airport at Raipur is the nearest airport to Rajim. 43.6 km away from Rajim, Raipur is connected to major cities in India by air. Taxi services are available to reach Rajim from Raipur airport.
By Rail
Raipur railway station is a major junction of south east central railway zone. It has many long distance and direct trains to almost all parts of India.
By Road
Rajim is well connected by road. Regular bus services are available from Raipur (46 km) to the holy city.
If you want to experience this, plan a trip to Chhattisgarh with Indian Holiday.
