UNESCO: World’s largest spiritual event – Maha Kumbh
In UNESCO's list, Maha Kumbh declared 'Intangible Cultural Heritage'
Source News: UN / Image Credit: news9live.com
The Mahakumbh Mela, declared as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO and recognized as the world’s largest spiritual gathering, was recently concluded in Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad), Uttar Pradesh. Millions of devotees from across India and abroad participated in the sacred bath. UN agencies – UNICEF and the World Health Organization (WHO) also contributed to the organization of this Mahakumbh. Over 600 million pilgrims from various parts of the world took part in the grand event, immersing themselves in the holy waters of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers at the sacred confluence.
Devotees, saints, and Naga Sadhus from different parts of the world take a holy dip in the Ganga River, making this event a spiritual and cultural confluence. UNESCO, recognizing Kumbh Mela as a symbol of tolerance and inclusivity, included it in the Intangible Cultural Heritage (IHC) list in December 2017. In the 2025 Mahakumbh, Tim Curtis, Director of UNESCO in India, also took a holy dip at the confluence. He described the Mahakumbh as the world’s largest spiritual fair, offering a unique glimpse into cultural heritage.
Tim Curtis stated, “After coming here, I felt a different energy and atmosphere. Witnessing so many people gathered in one place and participating joyfully in this festival has been an incredible experience. Everyone should witness it.” He further added, “This event proves that culture does not reside only in buildings but in people’s connections and traditions. This grand festival not only unites the people of India but also fosters a deep sense of belonging among people across the world.”
“It is a remarkable example of living heritage, preserving traditions that have been passed down through generations.” Many international visitors also attended the Mahakumbh. Eguzki from Spain expressed his joy, stating, “I am delighted to be at the Mahakumbh Mela because such a rare celestial alignment has occurred after 144 years, which holds great significance for the Earth, humans, and all living beings.”
The Mahakumbh Mela features several significant bathing rituals, including the first royal bath on Paush Purnima, followed by the Makar Sankranti Snan, Mauni Amavasya Snan (the main royal bath), Vasant Panchami Snan, Magh Purnima Snan, and finally, the Mahashivratri Snan. A devotee from Kanpur expressed, “It is a great fortune for us that this Mahakumbh has come after 144 years. We have not come here just to cleanse our bodies, but to take a sacred dip in faith.”
Similarly, a pilgrim from the Czech Republic, sharing his experience of bathing at the Sangam, said, “After two holy baths, I feel a transformation within myself. It feels as if the sacred Ganga has purified me, revealing my true self.”
The Mahakumbh Mela lasted for 45 days and concluded on February 26 with the Mahashivratri Snan.
