The Rajim Kumbh Mela is held every in Rajim. This year, the spiritual gathering will start from February 12, where several devotees will bathe in the sacred confluence of Mahanadi, Pairi, andSondur.
The event is celebrated near Lord Vishnu’s Rajimalochana Temple. The Rajim Kumbh Mela is a vital cultural and religious event, drawing pilgrims from all over India to engage in devotional practices and seek spiritual solace.
The festival, with its vibrant mix of saints, ascetics, and devotees, showcases India’s rich spiritual traditions and attracts a large number of participants every year.
- Location: Rajim, Chhattisgarh
- When: 12 February – 26 February 2025
- It begins on Magh Purnima and continues for 15 days.
- Known for: A large gathering of Vaishnavites who honor, known as the “fifth Kumbh”
The Fifth Kumbh
Rajim Kumbh is often referred to as the “5th Kumbh” because of its importance as a major spiritual event in India, alongside the four main Kumbh Melas held at Haridwar, Prayagraj (Allahabad), Ujjain, and Nasik. These four are traditionally considered the primary sites of the Kumbh Mela, but Rajim Kumbh has earned its place as an equally significant gathering due to its deep cultural and spiritual roots.
Rajim Kumbh Mela spot
Rajim Kumbh Mela spot will change after 21 years. This time this will be celebrated 750 meters away from Sangam. Temporary road will be built between Laxman Jhula-Chaubey Bandha
Special Attractions
During the Rajim Kumbh Mela, not just large number ofdevotees but also saints, and Naga sadhus participate in the sacred rituals, particularly during the holy dip. The holy dip is believed to cleanse the devotees of sins, purify their minds, and bring spiritual benefits. The event is also marked by the lighting of sacred lamps (often referred to as the Deep) and offerings made by devotees to the rivers and deities. The festival becomes a space for reflection, spiritual rejuvenation, and unity, with people from all walks of life coming together to participate in these time-honored practices.
Kalpwas- a period of intense practices
One of the most important rituals at the Rajim Kumbh Mela is the Kalpwas. It is a tradition that holds deep spiritual significance, similar to the one observed at the famous Prayagraj Kumbh Mela in Uttar Pradesh. During Kalpwas, devotees observe a period of intense spiritual practices and penance, which typically lasts for one month. This practice involves fasting or limited diet, regular prayer and chanting of mantras. Daily rituals at the riverbanks, including taking dips in the sacred rivers and offering prayers. Kalpwas at Rajim Kumbh is an integral part of the pilgrimage, highlighting the festival’s importance as a place for spiritual cleansing, reflection, and devotion.
State Governments Efforts
The Rajim Kumbh Mela has indeed gained significant prominence and recognition in recent years, thanks to the combined efforts of both the state and central governments. These efforts have played a crucial role in bringing the event into the limelight, helping it become a key spiritual gathering in India.
In addition to the state and central government’s efforts, local authorities have made strides to enhance infrastructure, improve security, and promote tourism during the festival, making it more accessible to pilgrims. The fifth Kumbh is now celebrated with great fervor and devotion.
