In Indian history, the Maha Kumbh Mela has a significant place. According to Hindu legends, during an event known as the churning of the ocean (called samudra manthan), which was a battle between the gods and demons to obtain the nectar of immortality (amrita), a few drops of this divine liquid fell from a pot (kumbha). Lord Vishnu, one of the major gods in Hinduism, managed to save four drops of this precious nectar and spilled them at four different places on Earth: Haridwar, Prayag (now Prayagraj), Ujjain, and Trimbak-Nashik. These spots are now considered holy pilgrimage sites where the Kumbh Mela is held.
Every three years, a grand fair takes place along the banks of the sacred rivers of Hinduism, including the Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati, and Godavari. Among these, the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj (Prayag) holds special significance and is larger and more important compared to the others.
Legend has it that even before the world was created, a great ritual known as the Ashwamedha Yagya was performed by Lord Brahma, the creator god, at the site of what is now Prayagraj. The Brahmeshwara temple and the Dashwamedh Ghat stand today as reminders of this ancient ritual. This historical event adds to the importance of the Maha Kumbh Mela held in Prayagraj.
There are five types of Kumbh Mela that happen in India:
Maha Kumbh Mela: This big event takes place only in Prayag (Prayagraj). It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience because it comes once every 144 years or after 12 Purna Kumbh Melas.
Purna Kumbh Mela: Occurring every 12 years, Purna Kumbh Mela is held in four sacred places in India: Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nasik, and Ujjain. It moves between these four locations every 12 years.
Ardh Kumbh Mela: Ardh Kumbh means "Half Kumbh," happening every 6 years. It takes place only in Haridwar and Prayagraj.
Kumbh Mela: This Mela happens at four different spots: Ujjain, Prayagraj, Nasik, and Haridwar. It's organized by state governments and attracts millions of devoted participants.
Magh (Kumbh) Mela: Also known as the Mini Kumbh, this event occurs annually in Prayagraj. It's held during the Hindu month of Magh (from January 14 to the end of February). According to Hindu beliefs, it marks the beginning of the Universe. The Magh Mela takes place at the confluence of three holy rivers, known as Triveni Sangam, near Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India.
The Magh Mela lasts for about 45 days, starting from Makar Sankranti in January, an important bathing day in the Hindu calendar. Pilgrims flock to the Sangam to take a sacred dip on auspicious dates during this period.
An Akhara in the context of the Kumbh Mela refers to a gathering or camp of a specific group of sadhus, or Hindu ascetics, who follow a particular tradition or lineage. These Akharas are often associated with specific sects or orders within Hinduism, each with its own customs, rituals, and spiritual practices.
During the Kumbh Mela, which is a massive Hindu pilgrimage and festival, these Akharas play a significant role. They set up camps along the banks of the sacred rivers where the festival takes place, providing accommodations, organizing rituals, and hosting events for their members and followers. Akharas are integral to the spiritual and social fabric of the Kumbh Mela, representing diverse facets of Hindu religious traditions and philosophies.
At every Kumbh Mela, a total of 13 Akharas regularly participate in the grand festival. However, during the 2019 Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, one women's Akhara broke tradition by setting up their camps and performing ceremonies similar to the male Akharas under their own flag.
Now, for the upcoming Kumbh Mela in 2025, there are expected to be a total of 14 Akharas, which can be divided into two groups similar to previous Kumbhs:
Group 1 includes Nirmohi Akhara, Nirvani, Digamber Akhara, Mahanirvani Akhara, Atal Akhara, Bada Udaseen Akhara, and Nirmal Akhada.
Group 2 consists of Niranjani Akhara, Juna Akhara, Avahan Akhara, Anand Akhara, Agni Akhara, and Naya Udasin Akhara.
Additionally, the female Akhara that participated in the Prayagraj Kumbh was named "Kinnar Akhada," which was a unique and noteworthy aspect for pilgrims to witness.