Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: A Profound Spiritual and Cultural Experience
Dr. Sukumar Canada
Having journeyed from Canada to witness this momentous
occasion, I initially harbored concerns regarding the sheer magnitude of the
gathering. Upon my arrival, approximately 35 million people (i.e., the entire population
of Canada gathering in one place!) were in attendance. However, I was
profoundly impressed by the exemplary organization and stringent standards of
cleanliness upheld throughout the festival grounds. The pathways were entirely
free of litter, and the bathing areas remained immaculate despite the vast
number of pilgrims availing themselves of these facilities. This extraordinary
level of sanitation was meticulously maintained by a dedicated workforce
operating tirelessly around the clock, whose efforts were held in high esteem
by both ascetics and devotees. It was deeply moving to witness these workers
being honored by visitors, many of whom expressed gratitude by reverently
touching their feet as a mark of respect. Additionally, they were offered dakshina—monetary gifts—as
part of this noble gesture. During my journey, I encountered a dignified and
graceful woman from the cleaning staff, whose blessing was deeply moving.
On the auspicious occasion of Magha Purnima. I had the
privilege of performing a sacred bath (snān) at the confluence of the rivers in
Prayagraj (Triveni Sangam). Covering nearly 22 kilometers on foot, I explored
the vast expanse of the Mela grounds, witnessing numerous Akhadas where revered
saints delivered profound discourses. I then visited the Kinnara Akhada and
received the blessings of their revered Mahamandaleshwar (similar to the
position of a Christian Bishop). Sanātana Dharma has long recognized the
existence and spiritual stature of transgender individuals, centuries before
the modern discourse on their rights emerged in the West. This recognition is
not merely symbolic; historically, some of the esteemed Mahamandaleshwars of
prominent Akhadas were transgender individuals. Within the higher echelons of
dharmic practice, particularly in the renunciant traditions, gender
distinctions hold no significance.
The logistical organization of the Kumbh Mela is a marvel of
modern planning and traditional wisdom. Over 300,000 tent groups, managed by
various sages and spiritual leaders, were systematically arranged and equipped
with running water, electricity, and sanitation facilities. Portable
bio-toilets were strategically placed and regularly maintained to uphold
hygiene standards. The temporary city, erected for a duration of merely two to
three months, boasted over 1,000 kilometers of roads laid atop the sandy riverbanks.
Steel plates were placed along these roads to prevent dust accumulation,
ensuring the smooth movement of both pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
Remarkably, once the festival concludes, all these temporary structures will be
dismantled, and the entire area will be submerged under three to four meters of
water, restoring the natural landscape.
During my stay, I visited four different ghats, where I
undertook the sacred ablutions each day. The experience was profoundly
spiritual and invigorating, reinforcing a deep sense of inner tranquility and
communal harmony. The ambiance of the festival was nothing short of miraculous,
characterized by an overwhelming sense of devotion and unity. I also had the
opportunity to attend discourses delivered by eminent scholars and spiritual
luminaries, gaining valuable insights into the philosophical and ritualistic
dimensions of Hinduism. Furthermore, the festival was a testament to the spirit
of generosity, as numerous spiritual groups prepared and offered food freely to
all visitors, embodying the ethos of selfless service.
The Maha Kumbh Mela stands as a powerful reminder of the
fundamental tenet of Hindu philosophy encapsulated in the ancient maxim
Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—"The world is one family." It serves as an
enduring call for humanity to recognize and honor the divinity inherent in all
beings. This grand confluence of faith, culture, and tradition not only reaffirms
spiritual values but also exemplifies the profound interconnectedness of human
existence.
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Dr. Sukumar is a Professional Engineer, working for a
multinational corporation and a Vancouver-based writer who has published 14
books on Indian philosophy and culture.
He can be reached at 778 707 2719 / sukumarcanada@gmail.com
Photographs taken by me at the Kumbh Mela
are available if required.
