An Unforgettable Experience at the Maha Kumbh Mela

Reaching the Sangam

The Sangam is the revered junction of three Indian rivers: the Ganges (Ganga), Yamuna, and the fabled Saraswati. Considered one of the holiest locations in Hinduism, this point is found at Prayagraj (previously Allahabad), Uttar Pradesh. Particularly during the Kumbh Mela, pilgrims assemble here to do a ceremonial bath in the waters, which is said to cleanse the soul and atone for sins. Viewed as both a physical gathering of rivers and a spiritual union representing the blending of earthly and celestial powers, the confluence is. Though not evident, the Saraswati River is thought to run underground and be present at the Sangam.

Photo Credit: Vikas

The Sacred Dip

Hundreds of pilgrims crowded the banks of the Sangam, some preparing for their dip, others emerging from the sacred waters, faces glowing with reverence.

Photo Credit: Vikas

This was the most auspicious day of the Maha Kumbh, the holiest moment to cleanse one’s soul. Bobby turned to me, grinning. “If you want to go to heaven with me, you must go in too.”

I was somewhat prepared, thinking I didn’t have to do this and could always back out. Well, why not? I had nothing to lose.

Bobby and Vikas went first. Then he went to get me because he knew I would not go underwater. I waded into the cold waters of the Sangam, shivering as the river embraced me. At first, I resisted going fully under—I hadn’t planned on soaking my hair. But Bobby laughed, shaking his head. “No half-dipping! You have to go all the way.” And so I did.

As soon as I went underwater, something changed. It felt like the river was cleaning away the dirt and tiredness from the last two days and cleansing something more profound—something you can’t see—but it felt real. I came up for air, breathing in the cold, but I felt energized instead of uncomfortable.

At that moment, I felt completely free with my wet hair on my face and no makeup.

A Religious Parade

After putting on dry clothes, we explored again, encountering more sadhus and receiving more blessings. In the afternoon, after their traditional bath, we saw a procession.

Vikas said, “The parade, after the sadhus have bathed, they return to their tents, riding a float or motorcade decorated with colorful garlands, lights, and beautiful ornaments.”

We quickly moved to find a place to watch as the sadhus, who had just bathed and received blessings, started their big parade through the city.

The procession at the Maha Kumbh Mela was an unbelievable sight, combining spirituality, custom, and stunning visuals.

They came in waves—the saddhus, some dressed in saffron robes, others completely bare, their bodies adorned only with beads and ashes. They had a powerful draw. Some people walked with tridents, looking determined and strong. Others danced happily; their laughter filled the air.

The parade featured cultural and folk aspects. Musicians played traditional instruments, dancers showcased kathak and Bharatanatyam, and performers dressed as Hindu gods and goddesses on stilts. Some floats had big conch shells that blew at times, creating deep sounds that resonated through the crowd.

As the floats moved through the crowd of worshippers, flower petals fell from above, and people shouted “Har Har Mahadev” and “Jai Ganga Maiya.” The Maha Kumbh Mela was filled with faith, devotion, and joy. It was a surreal, divine spectacle—a once-in-a-lifetime vision of faith in action.

Standing there, I realized my insignificance in the overall scheme of things. This event has been going on for thousands of years, showing a continuous commitment. I felt like a small part of history, watching it happen around me.

Once again, what we thought would be an “easy day” was a long and challenging experience. The intended three-kilometer journey became a competitive event. As night came, we felt cold and exhausted. But despite the aches and fatigue, my heart was whole.

The Journey Back

We had planned for a short, restful day. Instead, we had unknowingly walked another 25+ kilometers. By the time we reached our tent, the cold had settled into our bones, and exhaustion weighed down our limbs. We collapsed onto our cots, too worn out to even speak.

But despite the aching feet, soreness, and sheer physical exhaustion, I felt deeply, profoundly grateful.

One day, I’ll tell my grandchildren about this. About how I took a sacred dip in the Sangam, was blessed by sadhus, and witnessed a holy procession.

And for a fleeting moment, I was one with the universe.

Leaving the Maha Kumbh Mela

Our guide, Vikas, who has since become a good friend, continues to send us photos from the event, offering a glimpse into its overwhelming scale. Here’s a picture of Vikas I took, blessed by priests.

When we left, the reality on the ground remained intense. The borders were closed to enter Prayagraj, trains and buses were halted, and millions of people were stranded, desperately trying to make their way to this once-in-a-lifetime spiritual gathering. The event continues until February 26, 2025, drawing more people daily into its massive, sacred embrace.

Photos below, credit: Vikas

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Author and photo credit: Cristy