In pictures | Maha Kumbh Mela draws sea of devotees at Triveni Sangam

Maha Kumbh Mela draws sea of devotees at Triveni Sangam: A collection of images

The Triveni Sangam is a major destination for Hindu pilgrimages. The origin of the Kumbh Mela is attributed to eighth-century Hindu philosopher Adi Shankaracharya, who promoted regular gatherings of spiritual leaders and ascetics, and also instituted the monastery system and the 13 akharas (warrior-saint sects). Kumbh Melas are held every three years with a 12-year cycle for the Maha Kumbh – commencing along the riverbanks in Haridwar, then Ujjain, Nashik and culminating with the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj.

According to Hindu legend, when Lord Vishnu, in the guise of Mohini, carried the pot of amrit (nectar) during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean), a scuffle ensued leading to four drops falling at Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik and Ujjain – creating four Tirthas (holy sites). Devotees believe that a dip in the rivers flowing through these Tirthas (Ujjain - Kshipra, Nashik - Godavari, Haridwar - Ganga and Sangam at Prayagraj - the confluence point of rivers Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati) will lead to salvation.

Here is a display of photos from one the world’s largest religious congregation.