The Ardha Kumbh Mela, held after every six years, is by far the biggest and one of the most important religious gatherings of India. This 5000-year-old tradition has largest worshippers of saints, sadhus, sadhvis, kalpvasis and pilgrims from all walks of life, will begin in Allahabad (Prayagraj) on 15 January 2019. The mela will extend up to 48 days, drawing millions of pilgrims from across the world, who take the holy dip at the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna and Sarasvati rivers. It will be taking place till March 4, 2019, in Allahabad.
Kumbha Mela is one grand affair and has also been mentioned on the UNESCO s Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. For preparations, the union and state governments have allocated a massive budget of INR 2500 crore. The Union Tourism Ministry is also organising roadshows and taking part in events to raise awareness about this mega religious affair.
It wouldn t be wrong to say that Allahabad is the city of God. It s the mythological history according to which, when Lord Brahma was done with creating the world, offered his first sacrifice here. Hence the justification of its ancient name Prayag, meaning Place of Sacrifice. The place also holds a special significance according to the Hindu scriptures for holding the confluence of three of the most sacred rivers of India: Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati at Triveni Sangam, which becomes the nucleus of all celebrations of Kumbh Mela.
