Kumbh Mela in Haridwar
Millions of years ago, the most powerful beings in the universe, known as the devas (demigods) and the asuras (demons), fought in the heavens over a pot of immortal nectar. During their twelve-day battle, some of the nectar spilled onto four places in India: Allahabad and Haridwar in Uttar Pradesh, Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh, and Nashik in Maharashtra. According to the Vedic texts, a day in heaven equals a year on earth. So once every 12 years the nectar still pours onto these four sites, during certain planetary configurations. At these times, millions of people come to partake of the nectar by bathing in the holy rivers and drinking the sacred water. These gatherings of pilgrims are known as the Kumbh Mela (“festivals of the pots”).
Read More-Why Kumbh Mela is Celebrated?
Kumbh Mela in Haridwar:
- River: Ganga.
- Month: Chaitra (March–April).
- Zodiac: Jupiter in Aquarius, Sun in Aries.
- Note: Ardh Kumbh Mela also occurs here. i.e., for every 6 years.
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