About the Book
The Divine Kumbh offers a rare and immersive exploration of the Kumbh Mela, the world's largest religious gathering, where millions of pilgrims converge near India's sacred rivers every 12 years. This beautifully illustrated book delves into the ancient mythology, vibrant rituals, and profound spirituality that define the event.
From the Naga sadhus' radical quest for salvation to the rich cultural traditions of the akharas, The Divine Kumbh takes readers on a journey through heritage, devotion and purification. It highlights the timeless essence of the Mela, while also exploring the modern-day innovations that have transformed the event into a global phenomenon. With historical insights and vivid imagery, it offers an in-depth look at one of humanity's most significant spiritual traditions, inviting readers to experience the magic and power of the Kumbh Mela firsthand. This is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the heart of India's spiritual soul.
About the Author
Deepak Kumar Sen is a senior journalist and professional photographer. He has worked with major media organisations like The Press Trust of India, Dainik Jagran, Sahara Samay, and is a regular columnist for various reputed newspapers. He holds a Master's degree in History, a Master's in Hindi Literature, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication.
He produced a documentary titled Kumbh Ka Vigyan (The Science behind Kumbh) for Vigyan Prasar, which was featured at the National Science Film Festival and Competition in 2015. Currently, Sen is involved in new media and digital media as a mediapreneur. His hometown is Allahabad (now known as Prayagraj), with his home situated near the Sangam.
Foreword
The pictorial book The Divine Kumbh is a remarkable exploration of the Kumbh Mela, capturing its essence through stunning images and engaging text. The Kumbh Mela is a significant spiritual and cultural event in India, serving as a testament to the dharma, faith and spirituality that define the Indian ethos. It reflects our nation's rich cultural heritage.
I extend my blessings to the author, Deepak Sen, a resident of the sacred banks of the Ganga in Daraganj, Prayag, where the largest Kumbh Mela and Ardh Kumbh Mela take place. Deepak has truly felt the deep vibrations of the Kumbh Mela in his heart. This illustrated book covers all four Kumbh held at these holy sites.
The author and lensman has successfully captured various aspects of the Kumbh Mela through vivid images and thoughtful chapters. This book is not just a visual journey; it conveys the essence of this grand event. With ten engaging chapters, it explores the history of the Kumbh Mela and its significance in the 21st century.
Interestingly, while the world is now recognising the importance of rivers, our sages understood these thousands of years ago. The Kumbh is organised on the banks of the holy rivers confluence of Ganga, Yamuna and invisible Saraswati, Ganga, Shipra, and Godavari at Prayag, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik, respectively. This highlights the significance of rivers and reminds us that every ancient civilisation developed along their banks, emphasising their vital role in our history.
Through this book, readers will gain valuable insights into the Kumbh Mela, deepening their understanding and appreciation of this magnificent celebration. It also fosters a greater awareness of our cultural traditions and illuminates the profound spirituality embodied in the Kumbh Mela.
Preface
The word Kumbh, meaning 'pot, symbolically embodies a repository ranging from the darkest to the brightest aspects of life, encompassing both venom and nectar. As we embarked on documenting the Kumbh Mela, we were inundated with an infinity of information which inspired our camera shutters to capture diverse hues and moments, depicting movements and living murals. Each frame became a lexicon and a library of knowledge in itself.
Introduction
Kumbh Mela is one of the largest congregations of people on the earth. Millions, without any formal invitation, gather on the banks of four sacred rivers. They gather at the Sangam (the confluence of rivers Ganga, Yamuna and mythological Saraswati) in Prayagraj (erstwhile Allahabad), and on the banks of the Ganga at Haridwar, the Shipra at Ujjain and the Godavari at Nasik. They take ritual baths to purify and make themselves free from the vicious cycle of life and death, and move towards a heavenly realm, where suffering or pain does not exist.
