Kumbh Mela 2010
By Swatilekha, Gaea News NetworkThursday, January 14, 2010
HARIDWAR, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Kumbh Mela 2010 is set to commence from today and this year the Hindu pilgrimage is going to be held at Haridwar in the state of Uttarakhand. The holy pilgrimage of Kumbh Mela is considered as one of the largest religious gathering of the world as it witnesses the amalgamation of millions of devotees.
Reports claim that around four lakh devotees have already taken a dip in the holy Ganges on the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti. The temple town is abuzz with festive environment with thousands of devotees, sadhus and tourists arriving in the city to participate in the festivities. Anand Vardhan, in charge of Kumbh Mela 2010 has added that around 10 lakh devotees are likely to reach the fair grounds by Friday morning.
Meanwhile, it was being apprehended that the cold and cloudy weather conditions prevailing on Wednesday might act as a spoilsport and dampen the festive spirit among the pilgrims. However, Thursday morning witnessed clear weather conditions which brought an end to all the apprehensions surrounding the pilgrimage. At the same time, necessary measures are also been taken by the administration to avoid any untoward incident.
Kumbh Mela 2010 would be observed till April 28 and the occasion is expected to be attended by millions of pilgrims throughout the festive period. The holy Hindu pilgrimage is held four times in every twelve years in four different locations, which are known for their spiritual significance. Apart from Haridwar, Kumbh Mela is also held in Prayag( Allahabad), Nashik and Ujjain. Every time, Kumbh Mela turns out to be an outstanding spectacle as millions of devotees participate in the celebrations and bathe in the holy Ganges braving the chilly weather conditions.
