Maha kumbh: A Carnival of Devotion

Kapil Dhar

The 45-day festival of Maha Kumbh recently concluded in the sacred city of Prayagraj. The energy and vibrations of the festival could be felt everywhere—visible in the skies through planetary alignments, resonating across the world through the devotion of countless pilgrims, and reflected in the warmth of the host city. 

Despite the soaring travel prices, the devotion and intensity of the pilgrims remained unwavering as they journeyed to the confluence of the great rivers. I was blessed to witness this grand event up close and experience the cosmic energy that filled the city. Hosting millions of people from across the globe within a few weeks is no small feat, yet the people of Prayagraj displayed remarkable generosity and dedication. There was no sign of fatigue or irritation on their faces. Instead, they actively contributed in every way possible—providing boats, bicycles, rickshaws, and most importantly, a hospitable and welcoming spirit.

The Sacred Experience of Amrit Snaan

One of the most profound experiences at Maha Kumbh is Amrit Snaan, the holy dip. The sheer magnitude of devotion that draws millions to the sacred waters is awe-inspiring. I had the opportunity to take a boat ride towards the Triveni Sangam and complete my holy dip. The morning scene was mesmerising—thousands of boats filled with enthusiastic devotees sailing towards the confluence, singing devotional bhajans and chanting mantras. The boatmen, seemingly tireless, kept ferrying people to their sacred destination. Meanwhile, seagulls flocked to the Ganges, eagerly receiving prasad from the hands of the devotees, adding to the beauty of the confluence of the Ganga and Yamuna. It was a sight to cherish.

A Childhood Connection to Maha Kumbh

My experience at Maha Kumbh was deeply nostalgic, linking back to my childhood memory of Purna Kumbh 1989. As a young child, I was overwhelmed by the immense crowds, but looking back, I cherish those moments with my parents and my elder brother. That experience, though from a different era, remains vivid in my heart.

This year, I was grateful to reconnect with the devotion of millions and planned my visit around Basant Panchami with my dear friend and his family. During my travels, I met devotees from California, Australia, Bhutan, and various Indian states. I was particularly amazed to meet teenagers from Bengaluru, enthusiastic about participating in Maha Kumbh—proof that devotion  transcends generations. 

The Spirit of Seva at the Akharas

On my first night, I visited several Akharas and was deeply moved by the dedication of volunteers serving the devotees. I was fortunate to have dinner at one such Akhara, where the food was lovingly served with a unique tradition—each dish was addressed as ‘Ram’, such as ‘SubziRam’, ‘DalRam’, and ‘JalebiRam’.

This simple yet profound practice beautifully encapsulated Sanatan Dharma—a tradition that does not differentiate between beings or objects but sees divinity in everything. Observing such values in practice was deeply humbling. It reaffirmed that by respecting all aspects of creation, we gain clarity on how to live in harmony with the universe.

The Eternal Blessings of Maa Ganga

Great rivers have always been central to civilisation, sustaining both material and spiritual life. The Bhagirathi, Alaknanda, Yamuna, and other tributaries merge to form the sacred Ganga, which in turn is cradled in the divine locks of Mahadev. To witness the grandeur of Maa Ganga is an experience beyond words—she is not just a river, but a lifeline, revered for her blessings in both this life and the hereafter.

Reflections on Faith and Devotion

I have shared some pictures from my morning rendezvous with the Sunlit Goddess of Blessings. May you have her divine darshan through these images. I have prayed for the well-being and health of all.

Jai Maa Ganga!
Har Har Mahadev!