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Uttarakhand PCS (Pre) 2021

Indian Fairs and Festivals

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

The famous 'Gangasagar Mela' is held in which of the following states of India?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept Water-based pilgrimages at river confluences (Sangams) hold immense significance in Hinduism. Gangasagar marks the point where the holy river Ganges meets the Bay of Bengal.

Explanation The Gangasagar Mela is held annually at Sagar Island, West Bengal, on the occasion of Makar Sankranti (Jan 14/15). It centers around the ashram of the sage Kapil Muni.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: It is the second-largest Hindu gathering after the Kumbh Mela.
Logic 2: Devotees believe a dip at this confluence on Makar Sankranti cleanses sins and provides spiritual liberation. In 2023, approximately 51 lakh devotees participated.

Active Recall

Question

Who is the presiding deity of the Gangasagar pilgrimage?

Answer

The sage Kapil Muni, who is considered an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and the founder of the Samkhya school of philosophy.

Core Insight

The popular proverb 'Sab Tirth Baar Baar, Gangasagar Ek Baar' highlights the unique and historically challenging nature of this pilgrimage.

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