Indian Fairs and Festivals
Gangasagar Mela: West Bengal's Mega Harvest Fair
The Gangasagar Mela is held in West Bengal at the confluence of the Ganges and the Bay of Bengal. It is celebrated every year during Makar Sankranti.
Primary Reference: Standard Educational Reference
Archived:
Updated:
Exam Year
2021
Evidence Source
Link ↗The famous 'Gangasagar Mela' is held in which of the following states of India?
[Uttarakhand PCS (Pre) 2021]
Detailed Solution & Historical Context
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.
Authentic Source Evidence
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.
Analytical Breakdown
Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic
"Who is the presiding deity of the Gangasagar pilgrimage?"
The sage Kapil Muni, who is considered an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and the founder of the Samkhya school of philosophy.
Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip
"The popular proverb 'Sab Tirth Baar Baar, Gangasagar Ek Baar' highlights the unique and historically challenging nature of this pilgrimage."
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