The kumbha Mela takes place in four places in India viz. Ujjain, Nashi, Haridwar and Waranasi (Alahabad). The auspicious period repeats itself every twelve years. Millions of people collect and take bath in Ganga.

What is so special about this period?

The explanation of salvation from sins is inexplicable in scientific terms, because science does not conceive the meaning of “paap and punya” i.e. “sin and good deed” respectively.

The alternative explanation is probably as follows.

All paap or sin is that which takes us away from our true self, i.e. disorients us from ourselves. All punya is that, which enhances our orientation to our true self.

The kumbha period, by virtue of the characteristic constellation (The specific constellation during this time is Sun enters the Mesha rashi, Moon enters the Dhanu rashi and Guru enters the Kumbha rashi) according to Indian or the lunar calendar) seems to influence certain and places and rivers on the earth; beneficially; making them conducive to orientation to the universe to her cosmic self.

Since the human beings are subtly connected with rest of the universe, these places and rivers probably enhance the orientation of human beings also; to their true self.

This is analogous to the help one gets from the wind while sailing. The external and internal environment when favorable, one can get reoriented to the true self and experiences self realization!

The kumbha period (parva) probably signifies such a period full of benevolence!
It is essential to explore and appreciate the subtle links between human being and the universe and also the subtle changes in the rivers and the places; responsible for transcendental benefit; during this period.

The sociological, economic and other explanations (such as microbiological) offered are too simplistic and hence conceal the most beneficial and enlightening truth that can blossom the whole world!





PANCHANG:
Indian calendar is called panchang [pancha = five anga= aspects or parts; viz. tithi, war, nakshatra, karan and ayan].