The 2015 Kumbh Mela in Nashik, in Maharashtra, will be the next Kumbh Mela in India. It will take place from July 14 to September 25, 2015. This holy event is held there only once every 12 years, when Jupiter and the sun enter the zodiac sign Leo.
A total of 14 akharas (sects of sadhus) participate in the Nashik Kumbh Mela. 11 of them (including the renowned naked naga sadhus) are devoted to Lord Shiva, and three are devoted to Lord Vishnu.
One of the most important activities undertaken at the Kumbh Mela, by pilgrims and sadhus, is a dip in the holy waters to wash away sins. Most of the action happens at Kushavart Kund, the symbolic origin of the Godavari River, near Trimbakeshwar Temple at Trimbak (around 30 kilometers from Nashik). This is where the Shiva devotees bathe. Vishnu devotees bathe at Ramkund in Nashik (Lord Ram bathed there during his exile and performed the death rituals of his father there). Apparently, they all used to bathe together at Kushavart until 1838, when a major clash led to bloodshed and forced separation.
What are the Nashik Kumbh Mela Dates?
Auspicious dates that have special significance are as follows:
July 14, 2015: Flag hoisting main ceremony at Ramkund in Nashik. Simhastha Godavari Temple will open after 12 years (it's only open during the Kumbh Mela).
August 9, 2015: Flag hoisting ceremony of the akharas at Sadhugram (the spot where the sadhus will be staying).
August 26, 2105: Shravan Pratham (First Snan/Bath).
August 29, 2015: Shravan Purnima (First Shahi Snan/Royal Bath).
September 13, 2015: Bhadrapad Amavasya (Second Shahi Snan/Royal Bath and Main Bathing Day).
September 18, 2015: Bhadrapad Rishi Panchami (Third Shahi Snan/Royal Bath).
September 25, 2015: Bhadrapad Shukla Tritiya.
The main dates when the sadhus bathe (known as the Royal Bath) are highlighted in bold, with September 13 being the biggest occasion.
When Does the Bathing Happen the Main Day?
The sadhus commence their bathing from sunrise, with vibrant processions to the bathing area. The different sects each have a set order and time for bathing, and it continues throughout the day.
What's the Significance of the Dates?
The dates of the Kumbh Mela are determined astronomically, according to the positions of the sun, moon, and Jupiter. The Kumbh Mela at Nashik takes place partly during the Hindu month of Shravan, considered to be the holiest month of the year and the month that's dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva.
According to Hindu mythology, the churning of the ocean (Samudra manthan) took place during Shravan. Lord Shiva drank the poison that was produced by it, in order to save the world, and stored it in his throat. To lessen the effects of the poison, the gods gave him water from the holy Ganges River. The last day of Shravan occurs on the purnima (the full moon), and it's considered auspicious to offer water to Lord Shiva on this day.
The Hindu month of Bhadrapad is regarded as special for Lord Vishnu. It's a common practice to take a dip in the holy rivers of India on Amavasya (new moon/no moon) days each month.
Bhadrapad Rishi Panchami is dedicated to paying homage to the seven great sages of India, who notably contributed betterment of humankind. On this day, devotees aim to make themselves as holy and free from sin as possible, in order to purify their souls. Bathing upon waking early in the morning is an important step in this process.
How to Attend the Nashik Kumbh Mela
There are many trains to Nashik from Mumbai. Travel time is 3-4 hours. A list of trains and timetable is available here.
Special camps for tourists are set up near where the bathing takes place. The most popular, and well located, one is Prayag Kumbh Camp. All you have to do is get yourself to Nashik and they will take care of the rest, as per your requirements. Accommodations are provided in various types of cottages, with rates starting from 5,200 rupees for two people per night during the important bathing dates (minimum four night stay required). Dormitory accommodations are available for 1,590 rupees per night. Cultural activities such as yoga, bhajans and kirtan performances are also held on the premises for guests.
Something to keep in mind is that the Kumbh Mela will be taking place during the monsoon season. The monsoon is unpredictable and Maharashtra receives heavy rainfall (although it doesn't always rain all day, every day). Many of the camps offer tented accommodations, so do make appropriate inquires to ensure they're waterproof and the camp is able to cope with rain if you choose this option.
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