The Kumbh Mela, a majestic gathering of spiritual seekers, is deeply rooted in Vedic philosophy, symbolising the pursuit of wisdom and consciousness. The word "Kumbh" originates from the Sanskrit term for "pot" or "vessel," containing something invaluable – wisdom, intelligence, and consciousness.

In Vedic mythology, the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan) produced the pot of nectar (Amrita Kalasha), which granted immortality. This must not be misconstrued that it transcends merely to physical immortality; as for Gods, the haven abode, its eternity, seeking to meet parambrahm, and not merely immortality. Therefore, getting nectar represents the aspiration for gaining consciousness of ultimate reality, Parambrahm, through wisdom, intelligence and complete consciousness.

Sarasvati, the Goddess of Knowledge and Wisdom

The Rig Veda extols Sarasvati as the embodiment of wisdom, intelligence, and consciousness. Three mantras (Rig Veda, Mandala 1, Sukta 3, Mantras 10-12) illustrate her significance:

1. पावका नः सरस्वती वाजेभिर्वाजिनीवती । यज्ञं वष्टु धियावसुः ॥१.३.१०॥

Sarasvati is the purifier of the mind, driving intellect, and a repository of intelligence.

2. चोदयित्री सूनृतानां चेतन्ती सुमतीनाम् । यज्ञं दधे सरस्वती ॥१.३.११॥

Sarasvati inspires the sense of Rta (Cosmic Order) and awakens intelligence and consciousness.

3. महो अर्णः सरस्वती प्रचेतयति केतुना । धियो विश्वा विराजति ॥१.३.१२॥

The mantra describes Sarasvati as the overflowing waters of intelligence, awakening the intellect and providing a universal view of life.

Kumbh: A Metaphor for Centralising Lives

The Kumbh Mela represents a convergence of lives from all backgrounds, united in the pursuit of wisdom, consciousness and ultimate reality. Although it may seem like a festival, its significance extends far beyond that. Notably, the Kumbh Mela is not explicitly mentioned in ancient Vedic texts, sutra literature, epic-Puranic texts, smritis, dharmashastras, or other digests.

The Kumbh Mela takes place at Holi places where drops of nectar have fell. Kumbh Mela may not be mentioned in Vedic texts, but Kumbh is mentioned, therefore scholars refer to passages in the Atharva Veda, Rig Veda, and Yajur Veda to highlight its significance.

The Atharva Veda contains two relevant passages:

- 'चतुर: कुम्भांश्चतुर्धा ददामि' (4.34.7), which is part of a hymn glorifying the Vishtari sacrifice.

- 'पूर्ण: कुम्भोSधिकाल आहितस्तं' (19.53.3), which relates to the concept of 'godly time'.

The Rig Veda contains three passages (1.8.9, 10.89.7, 12.3.23).

The Yajur Veda contains one passage (Madhyandina, 19.87).

The celebration is believed to take place at locations where drops of nectar fell, signifying the dissemination of wisdom and consciousness. The confluence of rivers, particularly the Ganga, Yamuna and Sarasvati, represents the union of spiritual and worldly knowledge. When Saraswati emerges in Ganga, all wisdom is rendered most purified, and Holi dip is thus considered as performing Yajna of best purity, purifying the soul with the ultimate wisdom and attaining consciousness!

Inclusion in UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage List

The Kumbh signifies a place where wisdom prevails, no discrimination happens, Saints, men, women, any identity, young, old, rich, poor, naked and clothed —gather to take a holy dip manifesting deep socio-cultural foundations of Hinduism. Kumbh truly symbolises “Vasudaiva Kutumbkam” meaning, "the world is one family" (Maha Upanishad), therefore, it is not a surprise that Kumbh Mela was recognised by UNESCO in 2017 as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, acknowledging its cultural significance and importance in promoting spiritual growth and self-awareness.

Conclusion

The Kumbh Mela embodies the Vedic ideals of seeking wisdom, intelligence and consciousness. As a symbol of spiritual convergence, it transcends social and cultural boundaries, inspiring seekers to aspire for ultimate reality.