Once astrologers have determined the propitious bathing time or Kumbhayog, the first to hit the water is by legions of Naga Sadhus or Naga Babas, who cover their naked bodies with ash and wear hair in long dreadlocks. The mela is especially renowned for the presence of an extraordinary array of religious ascetics – sadhus and mahants – enticed from remote hideaways in forests, mountains and caves. It is organized immaculately by the government, the local authorities and the police. The over month-long fair is marked by the construction of a massive tented township, complete with cottages, huts, platforms, civic facilities, administrative and security measures. The Maha Kumbh Mela is the largest religious congregation in India, attended by millions. The event is commemorated every three years by the Kumbh Mela, held at each tirtha in turn the Sangam is known as Tirtharaj, the ‘King of Tirthas’ and here the Kumbh is held once in every twelve years, which is the greatest and holiest of all. A tirtha is a place where the devout can attain salvation. They fell to earth at the four Tirthas of Prayag, Haridwar, Nasik and Ujjain. Traditionally river confluences are regarded as auspicious places, but in Sangam, the significance of the confluence is most pious because here, the holy Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati meet to become one.Īccording to legends, Vishnu was carrying a Kumbh (pot) of amrit (nectar), when a scuffle broke out and four drops were spilled. Prayagraj is the most important pilgrimage centre for Hindus.