Kumbh Mela is an ancient Indian festival, which is known to bring together people of different religions, castes and mindsets. The festival is considered one of the largest of religious festivals in the world. Kumbh Mela is celebrated on rotational basis in four different places in India, which are considered the four most sacred places on earth – Allahabad, Ujjain, Nashik and Haridwar. Attended by more than million people every day, this colorful festival loudly speaks of the faith in the heart of every individual who attends it with a pure heart and soul.
History of Ujjain Kumbh Mela
The history of Kumbh Mela dates back to the time when the Devas were under the curse of Durvasa Muni and had lost all their strength. To regain their powers, they approached Lord Brahma and Lord Shiva. They were asked to pray to Lord Vishnu and then churn the Ocean of Milk- Ksheera Sagara in order to get Amrita (the nectar of immortality).
As it was a tough task, Devas asked Demons for help with a mutual agreement of sharing the nectar. However, when the Kumbha which contained Amrita appeared, Devas and Asuras started to fight. They continued to fight for several days. During the fight, Lord Vishnu appeared and he flew away with the Kumbha and its drops fell at four places – Allahabad, Ujjain, Nashik and Haridwar. Since then, Kumbha Mela is organized at these four places after every 12 years.
Kumbh Mela Celebrations
The festival of Kumbh is celebrated to strengthen one’s faith in the divine. People from all across the globe come to attend this unique festival. The celebrations of the festival involve a number of rituals, the main ritual being the holy dip. It is believed that taking a holy dip in the sacred waters on the day of new moon washes away all the sins and ends the cycle of rebirth.
There are a number of activities other than the ritual of bathing, such as devotional singing, religious discussions and mass feeding of holy men and women and the poor. People from different parts of the country share their faith and be a part of religious assemblies, wherein they discuss and disseminate information about their religion.
One can witness the true essence of ancient tradition with a visit to the Mela. The saffron colored clothes wrapped around the body of the Sadhus and Vibhuti (ashes) spread through the skin, talk much about ancient Indian culture.
How to Reach Kumbh Mela in Ujjain
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By Air:
The nearest airport is the Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport in Indore at a distance of 57 kilometers.
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By Rail:
Ujjain is connected to major parts of the nation with the Indian railway network. Taxis and rickshaws are easily available to take you to the city from the station.
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By Road:
Ujjain is connected with all major towns of the Madhya Pradesh state. Buses and taxis are easily available to commute with in Ujjain.
