Why Maha Kumbh Mela Happens Only in Prayaraj and Places of Importance to Visit There!

Every 12 years, something mythological, religious, and magical happens in India, particularly in Uttar Pradesh. A grand celebration, known as the “world's biggest religious gathering”, is hosted in the city of Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh and nowhere else. Although the Kumbh Mela takes place every three years and is held at four different locations, the Maha Kumbh Mela is hosted only in this city. Let us dive deep into the connection between this religious gathering and the previously known Allahabad, why it happens every 12 years, and the places to visit in Prayagraj.

The history of Kumbh Mela 

The origin of the Kumbh Mela is believed to be linked to Hindu mythology, which tells of a cosmic event that took place in the middle of the ocean. The story goes that "Samudra Manthan", or the churning of the ocean, was performed by the devas (gods) and asuras (demons) to obtain the "amrita", a magical substance that grants immortality. During the churning, a "Kumbh" (pot) containing the nectar emerged. To prevent the demons from claiming immortality, Lord Vishnu, in his form as Mohini, took possession of the pot and fled. It is believed that along the way, a few drops of the nectar fell at four locations: Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik, where the three-yearly Kumbh Mela is held on a rotating basis.

Why the Maha Kumbh is held in Prayaraj only?

Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad) holds special significance not only because of its association with the myth but also due to its geography. One of the main reasons the Maha Kumbh Mela takes place here is the “Triveni Sangam”, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical invisible Saraswati rivers. As this junction is considered one of the holiest sites in Hinduism, the 12-yearly Maha Kumbh Mela is held only here.

Why 12 years?

The Kumbh Mela follows a cycle of 12 years based on the celestial positions of the Sun, Moon, and Jupiter. This year is even more special as the day, according to the Hindu calendar, occurs once every 144 years, meaning it happens after the completion of 12 Purna Kumbhs. This rare celestial alignment is believed to make the festival an especially auspicious period for spiritual practices. Pilgrims flock to the rivers to take a holy dip, seeking to cleanse their sins and attain moksha (liberation).

If you want to witness the grandeur of this religious gathering, you can visit the city of Prayagraj, as the Maha Kumbh will start on the 13th of January and continue until the 26th of February. While in the city, here are the places you should visit.

Triveni Sangam: If you are in Uttar Pradesh during the time of Kumbh Mela you are sure to visit the place of confluence of the three holy rivers. 

Shri Lete Hue Hanuman Ji Temple: The Shri Lete Hue Hanuman Ji Temple in Daraganj features idols of Shiva-Parvati, Ganesh, Bhairav, Durga, Kali, and Navgrah.

Shri Ram-Janki Temple: The Ram-Janki Temple is believed to be the resident hut of lord Ram after he returned from exile. The temple was once a hut that was made a place of memory in remembrance of lord Ram. It is believed that after bathing in the Triveni Sangam, the wishes of the pilgrims are fulfilled by visiting this temple.

Shree Veni Madhav Temple: Veni Madhav Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Its history dates back to Treta Yug when Vishnu vanquished the demon Gajkarna to safeguard the Triveni Sangam. Esteemed in Hindu scriptures, a pilgrimage to Prayagraj is deemed incomplete without a visit to this temple. 

Alop Shankari Temple: This is a temple of Maa Durga which is referred to as a Shaktipeeth of Maa Sati. This temple neither has any idol of the mother nor the tangible form of any body part but the Alopshankari Devi is actually a cradle wrapped in a red chunari which is worshipped by the devotees.

Nagvasuki Temple: The Nagvasuki Temple here honours the serpent deity and is being restored for the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025.

The Shankar Viman Mandapam, a 130-foot-high South Indian-style temple, houses idols of Adi Shankaracharya, Kamakshi Devi, and Tirupati Balaji. The Shri Veni Madhav Temple, the most important of Prayagraj's twelve Madhava temples, is essential for completing the Prayag pilgrimage. The Akshayvat Tree and Patalpuri Temple near Allahabad Fort hold deep mythological significance. The Akshayvat is a sacred fig tree mentioned in Hindu texts.

Other notable temples include the Mankameshwar Temple, Dashashwamedha Temple, and Takshakeshwar Nath Temple. The Saraswati Koop is being refurbished for the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 to preserve its historical and cultural value. The evening Ganga Aarti at Ram Ghat is a captivating ritual honouring the river goddess. It is performed daily with chants, lamps, and devotion and symbolises the five elements of nature.

Prayagraj is also home to Allahabad University, India’s fourth-oldest university, established on 23rd September 1887. The Public Library of Prayagraj set up in 1864 and relocated to its current building in 1878, houses rare manuscripts and books. It also hosted the first Legislative Council meeting of the state in 1887, adding to its historical importance.