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Maha Kumbh 2025: The Maha Kumbh is set to be held in UP’s Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26, 2025. Here’s why the grand religious fair is held only once every 12 years
Maha Kumbh is one of the largest religious fairs in the world, attracting lakhs of devotees from across India and abroad. (Shutterstock)
Preparations for the Maha Kumbh are being carried out on a large scale in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. The Maha Kumbh, held every 12 years, is set to take place from January 13 to February 26 in 2025.
It is one of the largest religious fairs in the world, attracting lakhs of devotees from across India and abroad. Devotees bath at the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers at the fair.
Why Is the Maha Kumbh Held Every 12 Years?
According to mythology, the Maha Kumbh is linked to the Samudra Manthan, or the churning of the ocean. During a fierce battle between the deities and demons for the Amrit, or nectar of immortality, the Amrit Kalash, was retrieved. It is said that during this battle, drops of nectar fell on four sacred places on Earth — Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik. This celestial event led to the tradition of organising the Kumbh Mela at these locations.
Scriptural references also describe Prayagraj as Teerthraj, the King of Pilgrimages. According to beliefs, the first yagya, was performed here by Lord Brahma. The deities and demons battled for 12 celestial days, which is equivalent to 12 human years and this is the primary reason why the Kumbh Mela is celebrated every 12 years.
Astrological Significance of Maha Kumbh
Astrology provides further insight into the timing of the Kumbh Mela. According to Ayodhya-based astrologer Pandit Kalki Ram, when Jupiter transits Taurus and the Sun moves into Capricorn, the Kumbh Mela is organised in Prayagraj. Similarly, when Jupiter is in Aquarius and the Sun enters Aries, Kumbh is held in Haridwar. When both Jupiter and the Sun are in Leo, the Maha Kumbh takes place in Nashik. In the case of Ujjain, the Kumbh is held when Jupiter is in Leo and the Sun moves into Aries.
- Location :
Prayagraj, India