The Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years, aligns with the movement of Jupiter (Brihaspati), a phenomenon understood by ancient sants long before modern science confirmed its 12-year orbit around the Sun. Recognising the cosmic influence of planetary movements, they integrated this cycle into sacred traditions, connecting spiritual evolution with celestial rhythms. A half Kumbh (Ardh Kumbh) takes place midway between two full Kumbhs.
According to officials, the 2025 festival is a Mahakumbh Mela, a rare event that occurs once every 144 years, making it even more significant. Pilgrims believe that taking a ritual bath in sacred rivers such as the Ganges, Yamuna, or Triveni Sangam during this period purifies past sins and guides seekers toward Moksha (liberation).
We had the privilege of participating in the Yuva Kumbh Mela, organised by All India Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram. This grand event brought together more than 15,000 youth over two days, celebrating traditional art forms through dance, music, and worship. The first day featured a seminar attended by distinguished dignitaries, including Juna Akhara’s Swami Avdheshanand Giri Maharaj as the chief guest, along with Mahamandaleshwar Swami Raghunath Bappaji Maharaj (Farshi Wale Baba), Union Minister of State for Tribal Affairs Durgadas Uike, National President of Kalyan Ashram Shri Satyendra Singh, former Chairman of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes Shri Harsh Chauhan, and Padma Shri awardee Chaitram Pawar.
Swami Avdheshanand Giri Maharaji emphasised that the Mahakumbh would be incomplete without the active participation of the tribal community. He urged tribal brothers and sisters to bring their traditions and customs to the Kumbh while encouraging sants to visit forest regions to experience their way of life. Mahamandaleshwar Raghunath Bappa Maharaj reinforced the deep connection between Janjati culture and the Sanatan tradition. Minister Durgadas Uike cautioned against external influences attempting to manipulate tribal society and called upon the youth to actively safeguard their cultural heritage. He reminded us that history has always witnessed transformation led by the youth, emphasising their crucial role in bringing change to forest regions. Former Chairman Shri Harsh Chauhan stressed the importance of preserving tribal identity and encouraged young leaders to educate themselves and guide their communities with resilience.
Kalyan Ashram’s National President, Satyendra Singh, highlighted that the Mahakumbh represents the consciousness of Aranyak (forest) culture. Several young activists also voiced their commitment to the objectives of this Janjati youth conference, which culminated in a manifesto outlining seven key action points for the youth to implement in their daily lives.
On the second day, a grand procession was organised by Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram under the leadership of Swami Avdheshanand Giri Maharaj, who unfurled a saffron flag to commence the march. Participants, dressed in traditional attire, marched with great enthusiasm, chanting praises of Bhagwan Shankar, Shri Ram, Shri Krishna, Ganga Mata, Gau Mata, Dharti Mata, and Bharat Mata. The procession concluded at the Sangam, where devotees took part in the Amrit Snan. This sacred event also conveyed a strong social message, advocating for water conservation, environmental sustainability, and communal harmony.
One of the most profound aspects of the Mahakumbh is its spirit of inclusivity—there were no separate ghats for different castes or backgrounds. Hindus from all walks of life bathed together, reinforcing the fundamental equality among devotees. Even foreign pilgrims were welcomed with the same respect, emphasising the unity inherent in Sanatan Dharma. The experience at the Kumbh reaffirmed that the spiritual consciousness embedded in this gathering is also the essence of tribal society in India. The values of co-existence, charity, and unity have always been integral to tribal life, and diversity has never meant division but rather a harmonious coexistence. However, historical events, particularly during British colonial rule, attempted to alienate Janjati communities from their spiritual roots, creating confusion and disconnect. It is a grave mistake to claim that tribal society has no religion—such statements undermine the rich cultural and spiritual traditions of these communities. Efforts to lure tribal people away from their ancestral beliefs under false pretences are a severe offence against human civilisation. The message of this Mahakumbh is clear: preserving the faith, traditions, and identity of tribal society is a collective responsibility. All youth, whether from rural or urban backgrounds, must actively safeguard their heritage.
Participating in this Mahakumbh Mela was a profoundly enriching experience, leaving us with a deep sense of pride and gratitude. The event not only inspired youth but also strengthened the cultural and spiritual bonds among devotees. Organising similar events in the future will undoubtedly contribute to the ongoing cultural and spiritual transformation of society. The Mahakumbh was an unforgettable journey, filling our hearts with divine blessings and an enduring sense of unity.
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