Pilgrimage and Sacred Rivers

Kumbh Mela at Nasik | Godavari River Pilgrimage

The Kumbh Mela at Nashik is held on the banks of the Godavari River. It is celebrated every 12 years and includes ritual bathing at Nashik and Trimbakeshwar.

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Kumbh Mela at Nasik is held on which of the following riverbank?

[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2003]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


The Kumbh Mela is the largest peaceful gathering of pilgrims in the world, held at four specific river-bank sites where 'Amrit' (nectar) is believed to have fallen.

Authentic Source Evidence


The Kumbh Mela at Nashik, specifically the Nashik-Trimbak Kumbha Mela, is held on the banks of the Godavari River every 12 years.

Analytical Breakdown


  • Logic 1: Ritual bathing takes place at the Ram Kund in Nashik and at Trimbakeshwar, the source of the Godavari.

  • Logic 2: The other three sites are Haridwar (Ganga), Prayagraj (Sangam of Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati), and Ujjain (Shipra).
  • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "How is the timing of the Nashik Kumbh Mela determined?"

    It is held when the Sun and Jupiter enter the zodiac sign of Leo (Simha), which is why it is often called the Simhastha Kumbh.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "The Godavari is often referred to as 'Dakshina Ganga' (Ganga of the South), and the Nashik Kumbh reinforces its status as a primary sacred river of India."

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