The Mahakumbh Mela, which is scheduled to start on January 13, represents one of the largest religious assemblies globally and is an intriguing blend of spirituality, mythology, and science.
Conducted every four years at three revered sites — Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik — and at Prayagraj every 12 years, the celebration draws millions of devotees who hold that bathing in the sacred rivers during this time grants freedom from the cycle of life and death.
Apart from its spiritual significance, the festival’s schedule is profoundly connected to astronomical events, especially related to the planet Jupiter and its movement.
Mythological significance
The Mahakumbh Mela, set to commence on January 13, is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world and offers a captivating mix of spirituality, mythology, and science.
Held every four years at three venerated locations — Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik — and at Prayagraj every 12 years, the festival attracts millions of worshippers who believe that bathing in the holy rivers during this period offers liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
Besides its spiritual importance, the festival’s timetable is closely linked to astronomical phenomena, particularly concerning the planet Jupiter and its motion.
Scientific perspective
From a scientific perspective, the Kumbh Mela demonstrates a sophisticated grasp of astronomy and its impacts on human biology.
Studies suggest that planetary alignments may impact Earth’s electromagnetic fields, subsequently affecting biological systems. Research in bio-magnetism indicates that human bodies produce electromagnetic fields and react to the charged environments surrounding them.
This phenomenon might clarify why numerous attendees express sensations of tranquility and well-being while at the festival.
The festival’s timetable is set based on particular planetary alignments, with Jupiter being a key factor. Jupiter’s 12-year journey around the Sun periodically positions it with specific zodiac signs that indicate favorable moments.
The Mahakumbh Mela takes place when Jupiter aligns in a particular configuration with the positions of the Sun and Moon. This arrangement is thought to enhance the electromagnetic fields of Earth.
Jupiter will achieve opposition on December 7, 2024, as Earth sits precisely between the Sun and the planet. This occurrence caused Jupiter to glow brilliantly in the nighttime sky. It will persist in this, especially in January 2025, since it stays visible throughout much of the month, reaching its highest point near midnight.
In the coming weeks, four planets—Venus, Saturn, Jupiter, and Mars—will be easily seen just after sunset, offering a stunning sight for viewers.
