Kumbh Mela 2019

The description provides a vivid account of the significance of the Kumbha Parva, specifically the Simhastha Parva celebrated in Ujjain, and its connection to the Hindu mythological tale of the churning of the cosmic ocean.

According to Hindu mythology, during the churning of the cosmic ocean by gods and demons, drops of the Nectar spilled from the vessel and fell at four sacred places, including Ujjain. The Kumbha Parva is celebrated every twelve years at these locations, and the Simhastha Parva in Ujjain has specific features associated with Leo.

During the Simhastha Parva in Ujjain, several celestial coincidences align, including the month of Baisakha, the bright fortnight, the full moon day (Purnima), the sun in the arise (Mesha Rasi), Brihaspati (Jupiter) in Leo, the moon in Libra (Tula Rasi), the Vyatipata Yoga, the pious Monday, and the holy Kshetra Avantika. These alignments bring together lakhs of pilgrims from India and abroad to take a holy dip in the Shipra River and exhibit their religious faith.

The most peculiar feature is the procession of seers and sages moving towards the Shipra for the holy dip. These religious leaders stay in Ujjain throughout the Simhastha period and take baths on specific days with great faith and enthusiasm, carrying their sectorial banners (Nisanas).

Pilgrims, after taking a bath, visit the temple and humbly bow down before Lord Mahakaleshwar. The atmosphere during the Simhastha Parva is described as enchanting, with the whole city echoing with chants of “Jaya Jayakara” (Victory to the Lord) for Mahakalesvara. The law and order situations are well-planned and alert during this time, ensuring a peaceful and spiritually charged environment for the devotees. The Simhastha Parva becomes a grand celebration of faith, rituals, and spiritual experiences in Ujjain.