Know the mythological story behind Kumbh Mela?: Mythology of Kumbh

Mythology of Kumbh: Kumbh Mela is the biggest and sacred religious event of our country. It is held every 12 years at four holy places Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain and Nashik. Crores of devotees gather in this fair and take bath in the Sangam or holy rivers. Which is considered the path to purification of the soul and attainment of salvation. The tradition of Kumbh Mela is centuries old, and there is a deep mythology hidden behind it. This story is related to the churning of the ocean and the distribution of nectar.

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story of churning of ocean

The mythological story of the Kumbh Mela has its roots in the event of the churning of the ocean as described in Hindu scriptures, especially the Srimad Bhagwat and the Vishnu Purana. Once it was decided between the demons and the gods that they would together churn the ocean and divide the nectar coming out of it equally. To churn the ocean, Mandarachal mountain was used as a churner and Vasuki serpent was used as a rope. During the churning, many divine objects and creatures emerged from the ocean. Like Kamdhenu cow, Kalpavriksha, poison, and finally the Kumbh filled with nectar. A dispute started between the Gods and the Asuras over Amrit.

Struggle between gods and demons over nectar

After the Amrit Kumbh was obtained, the gods and demons fought among themselves to obtain it. The gods sought help from Lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu took the form of Mohini and deceived the demons and handed over the pot of nectar to the gods. To keep the Amrit Kalash safe, the gods entrusted the responsibility of protecting it to Garuda, Indra, Moon and Surya. The demons tried to achieve this and during this time the Kumbh filled with nectar was kept at four places Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain and Nashik. During the struggle some drops of nectar fell at these four places. It is said that wherever the drops of nectar fell, those places became sacred and the tradition of Kumbh Mela started from here.

Astrological and spiritual significance

Kumbh Mela is not just a religious event but it also has deep astrological significance. The Kumbh Mela is held when Jupiter, Sun and Moon come into a particular astronomical position. This is called Kumbh Yoga. This coincidence occurs every 12 years and bestows sanctity on these places. It is said that by taking bath in these holy rivers on these special days, all the sins of the soul are washed away and one attains salvation.

Historical aspect of Kumbh Mela

The tradition of Kumbh Mela is also mentioned in the epic Mahabharata and other ancient texts. Adi Shankaracharya also gave an organized form to the Kumbh Mela and took it to the masses. The fair is a living example of Indian culture, spirituality and tradition. Through this event the roots of Indian culture and spirituality deepen further. Kumbh Mela, where lakhs of devotees gather with faith and devotion, is not just a religious event but the biggest celebration of humanity and spirituality.