Maha Kumbh Mela 2010

February 2010 - Rishikesh, India

When I planned my trip to India, little did I know that I’d be here in the most auspicious of times according to Hindu tradition. I must say, you can feel this celestial energy, a blessed feeling of sorts, an overwhelming sense of peace and possibilities.

The 15th of March is Somvati Amavasya – Dwitiya Shahi Snan – Second Royal Bath. One of the most auspicious days of this year’s Maha Kumbh Mela. A bath in the River Ganges is a must to “wash away all sins.” So, you know what I’ll be doing on Monday, March 15th, eh?

Kumbh Mela Background:

Kumbh Mela is one of the largest gathering of people from different parts of India and from around the world. Astrologically it is believed to be celebrated when the planet Jupiter enters Aquarius and the Sun enters Aries.

The word Kumbh means pitcher or a pot. According to Hindu mythology, when a fierce fight erupted between Gods and Demons over a pot containing the nectar of immortality, drops of that nectar fell in four different places. Those four places are Haridwar, Prayag, Ujjain and Nasik.

The Kumbh Mela is held at these four holy cities in to celebrate the event with the Maha Kumbh Mela in Haridwar taking place once every 12 years. The celebration goes on from January 14th to April 28th, 2010.