My country, my rivers: Exploring the sacred sites of Maha Kumbh Mela where faith and culture converge

Discover the spiritual essence of India at the four sacred sites of the Maha Kumbh Mela and participate in HT@100 My Country, My Lens photo contest today

The Maha Kumbh Mela, one of the world’s largest religious gatherings, is a celebration of faith, spirituality, and culture. Observed every 12 years, it rotates between four sacred sites: Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik. Millions of pilgrims gather to take a holy dip in the rivers believed to cleanse sins and grant liberation. Ahead of the shahi snan on Basant Panchami, here’s a closer look at these sacred locations where the confluence of spirituality and tradition unfolds.

Ahead of the shahi snan on Basant Panchami, here’s a closer look at these sacred locations where the confluence of spirituality and tradition unfolds.

Prayagraj: The Triveni Sangam

Prayagraj transforms into a vibrant spiritual hub during the Mela, with millions participating in rituals, prayers, and cultural events.

Prayagraj, in Uttar Pradesh, hosts the Maha Kumbh Mela at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers. Known as the Triveni Sangam, this site is considered the holiest of the four. Pilgrims believe that a dip here washes away sins and brings spiritual merit. Prayagraj transforms into a vibrant spiritual hub during the Mela, with millions participating in rituals, prayers, and cultural events. The aura of devotion at the Triveni Sangam makes this site truly divine.

Haridwar: Gateway to the Ganges

Haridwar is renowned for its ghats, particularly Har Ki Pauri, where pilgrims take holy dips to cleanse their souls.

Haridwar, nestled in the state of Uttarakhand, is another sacred site for the Maha Kumbh Mela. Situated along the banks of the Ganges river, it is believed to be where drops of the divine nectar of immortality fell during a cosmic event. Haridwar is renowned for its ghats, particularly Har Ki Pauri, where pilgrims take holy dips to cleanse their souls. The town’s serene surroundings and religious fervour during the Kumbh Mela offer an unparalleled spiritual experience.

Ujjain: The City of Temples

During the Mela, the Shipra river becomes a focal point for spiritual practices and rituals

Ujjain, located in Madhya Pradesh, holds the Maha Kumbh Mela on the banks of the Shipra river. This ancient city is steeped in mythology and is home to the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, one of Lord Shiva’s most revered shrines. During the Mela, the Shipra river becomes a focal point for spiritual practices and rituals. Ujjain’s rich cultural heritage and its role as a sacred centre of Hinduism make it a significant destination for devotees and history enthusiasts alike.

Nashik: Land of the Godavari

The Godavari, referred to as the southern Ganges, adds to the spiritual significance of this city, making it a cornerstone of India’s religious landscape.

Nashik, in Maharashtra, is the site where the Maha Kumbh Mela is observed along the Godavari river. The city holds immense religious importance, believed to be linked to the Ramayana. Nashik-Trimbak becomes a hub of activity during the Kumbh, with devotees flocking to the ghats for the holy dip. The Godavari, referred to as the southern Ganges, adds to the spiritual significance of this city, making it a cornerstone of India’s religious landscape.

Much like the serene rivers that flow through these quiet retreats, India’s essence is captured in countless moments across its vast terrain. This is perfectly exemplified in the My Country My Lens contest, which celebrates 100 years of Hindustan Times through a 100-day photography challenge. If you're a budding photographer or someone who's been doing this for years, get the chance to feature your picture in Hindustan Times! For more information, click here.