Kumbh Mela
The episode of Samudra Manthan (churning of the mythological ocean, the Ksheer Sagar) is mentioned in various ancient Indian scriptures (eg. – Srimad Bhagavat, Vishnu Purana, Mahabharata and the Ramayana) which narrates how after the Gods lost their potency, the thought of churning the Ksheer Sagar to obtain Amrit (the nectar of immortality) the occurred them. They realized soon that the feat couldn’t be accomplished without the help of their adversaries, the Asuras (demons). A provisional arrangement was made between the two with the promise of sharing the Amrit.
After the task was accomplished a fight ensued between the two groups over the possession of the Kumbh (a pitcher) containing the divine nectar. They fought for twelve days and nights, which equates to twelve human years. While the fight was on, the vehicle of Lord Vishnu, the Garuda (a celestial bird) flew away with the Kumbh.
During this flight some drops of Amrit spilled over at four places on earth namely Prayag, Haridwar, Ujjain and Nashik. Commemorating this celestial and mythical event the Kumbh Mela is held four times every twelve years at these four places.
Read more at: Uttarakhand Tourism
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