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Line 9: − − But what is the origin of the Kumbh Mela? When did this huge event first make its presence felt in the Indian mainland? How did it become one of the torch bearers of Sanatana Dharma in this huge nation? − − The first documented reference to the Kumbh Mela can be found in a sixth century treatise. Renowned world traveller and chronicler Huen Tsang documents his visit to the city of Prayaag. Tsang mentions a massive congregation of humans, on the banks of the Ganga every six years. During the event the ruler King Harshvardhan, would give away his all in charity, returning to his palace in only the clothes that covered him. It is fairly probable that the event referred to here is the Ardh Kumbh held every six years at Prayaag. − − The timing and venue of Kumbh Mela is determined on the basis of astronomical events. It is believed that during these planetary alignments, spiritual energy is at its peak, making Kumbh Mela a truly divine event. − − Calculations are made by studying the positions of three celestial bodies Sun, Moon and Jupiter in different rashis or zodiac signs. − − These astrological phenomena are deeply symbolic – the three celestial bodies have profound spiritual and physical associations. In Sanatana Dharma Sun symbolises the Aatman; Moon the Mann; and Jupiter the Dharma{{Citation needed}}. When Dharma is practiced it purifies the chitt or mann which in turn elevates the soul and opens the door for self-realisation. It is the main cause which attracts saadhaks to the kumbh mela from all over the world. Line 25:
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Kumbh Mela (कुम्भ मेला) (view source)
Revision as of 12:20, 16 January 2019
, 12:20, 16 January 2019→Kumbh Mela - Introduction: Editing done
On prescribed dates during the Kumbh Mela, special bathing rituals are held on the ghats or banks of holy rivers. These are called Shahi or Amrit Snan; and are undoubtedly the most spectacular and anticipated events during the Mela. Sages and monks gather at the ghats for a holy dip, giving the devotees a rare and precious opportunity to see them up close. Naga sadhus – naked ascetics whose only covering is ash or Bhasma - hold out a message to the onlookers. Everything is prey to the scourge of Time and ultimately will return to ashes. After the bathing of sages, it is auspicious to take bath in the holy water.
On prescribed dates during the Kumbh Mela, special bathing rituals are held on the ghats or banks of holy rivers. These are called Shahi or Amrit Snan; and are undoubtedly the most spectacular and anticipated events during the Mela. Sages and monks gather at the ghats for a holy dip, giving the devotees a rare and precious opportunity to see them up close. Naga sadhus – naked ascetics whose only covering is ash or Bhasma - hold out a message to the onlookers. Everything is prey to the scourge of Time and ultimately will return to ashes. After the bathing of sages, it is auspicious to take bath in the holy water.
=== Importance of Rivers in Sanatana Tradition ===
=== Importance of Rivers in Sanatana Tradition ===
At the Kumbh Mela bathing in the holy waters of rivers holds deep significance. In Sanatan tradition Rivers are life-giving and are worshipped as worldly manifestations of the Goddess. Sanatana Dharma extols the maternal aspect of rivers and considers a dip in their waters as purifying and elevating. It also maintains a sense of duty towards the rivers for their preservation. At one level this cleanses the body and soul of ills; and at another level reaffirms the Hindus’ duty to keep rivers clean, and preserve their life-giving energy.
At the Kumbh Mela bathing in the holy waters of rivers holds deep significance. In Sanatan tradition Rivers are life-giving and are worshipped as worldly manifestations of the Goddess. Sanatana Dharma extols the maternal aspect of rivers and considers a dip in their waters as purifying and elevating. It also maintains a sense of duty towards the rivers for their preservation. At one level this cleanses the body and soul of ills; and at another level reaffirms the Hindus’ duty to keep rivers clean, and preserve their life-giving energy.
=== Legend of Samudra Manthan ===
== Origin of the name "Kumbh" and the Legend of Samudra Manthan ==
Among the many mythological tales associated with the Kumbh Mela, the most popular is the ancient legend of the Samudra Manthan.
Among the many mythological tales associated with the Kumbh Mela, the most popular is the ancient legend of the Samudra Manthan.
In the Sanatan tradition folk lore has deep educational connotations. It presents profound and esoteric truths in simple and interesting tales for the uptake by common masses.
In the Sanatan tradition folk lore has deep educational connotations. It presents profound and esoteric truths in simple and interesting tales for the uptake by common masses.
== Kumbh Mela - A Treasure of Plurality ==
== First Documented Reference of Kumbh Mela ==
An obvious question is what is the origin of the Kumbh Mela? When did this huge event first make its presence felt in the Indian mainland? How did it become one of the torch bearers of Sanatana Dharma in this huge nation?
The first documented reference to the Kumbh Mela can be found in a sixth century treatise. Renowned world traveller and chronicler Huen Tsang documents his visit to the city of Prayaag. Tsang mentions a massive congregation of humans, on the banks of the Ganga every six years. During the event the ruler King Harshvardhan, would give away his all in charity, returning to his palace in only the clothes that covered him. It is fairly probable that the event referred to here is the Ardh Kumbh held every six years at Prayaag.
The timing and venue of Kumbh Mela is determined on the basis of astronomical events. It is believed that during these planetary alignments, spiritual energy is at its peak, making Kumbh Mela a truly divine event. Calculations are made by studying the positions of three celestial bodies Sun, Moon and Jupiter in different rashis or zodiac signs.
These astrological phenomena are deeply symbolic – the three celestial bodies have profound spiritual and physical associations. In Sanatana Dharma Sun symbolises the Aatman; Moon the Mann; and Jupiter the Dharma{{Citation needed}}. When Dharma is practiced it purifies the chitt or mann which in turn elevates the soul and opens the door for self-realisation. It is the main cause which attracts saadhaks to the kumbh mela from all over the world.
=== Kumbh Mela - A Treasure of Plurality ===
A treasure of plurality... of language.... of dresses ...of food… of cultures... of communities..... Each so varied and so distinct
A treasure of plurality... of language.... of dresses ...of food… of cultures... of communities..... Each so varied and so distinct