Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 156

Kumbh Mela is held in every ..... years

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the traditional cycle of the Kumbh Mela.

Correct Answer: A) 12

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Bank PO, Civil Services

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

The Kumbh Mela is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world and is held every 12 years at four different locations in India: Prayagraj (Allahabad), Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain. The event is a significant part of Hindu culture and is attended by millions of devotees who come to bathe in the sacred rivers at these locations, believing that doing so will cleanse them of their sins and bring them closer to salvation.

The 12-year cycle of the Kumbh Mela is based on the position of Jupiter (Brihaspati) in the zodiac. In Hindu astrology, Jupiter is considered a highly auspicious planet, and its position in the zodiac is believed to influence the timing of the Kumbh Mela. The event is held at different locations in a specific sequence, with each location hosting the Kumbh Mela once every 12 years. This cycle ensures that the event is held at each location in a regular and predictable manner, allowing devotees to plan their participation accordingly.

The Kumbh Mela is not only a religious event but also a cultural and social gathering. It brings together people from various backgrounds and regions, fostering a sense of unity and shared identity. The event is also significant for its historical and traditional importance, as it has been held for centuries and continues to be a major event in the Hindu calendar.

It is important to note that the 12-year cycle is a fixed and traditional period for the Kumbh Mela, and it is not influenced by other factors such as the frequency of other religious events or the convenience of scheduling. The 12-year cycle is deeply rooted in Hindu tradition and is an essential aspect of the Kumbh Mela's significance.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This is the correct answer. The Kumbh Mela is held every 12 years, making it a significant event in the Hindu calendar. The 12-year cycle is based on the position of Jupiter in the zodiac, which is considered auspicious for the event.
  • Option B: This is incorrect. The Kumbh Mela is not held every 10 years. The 12-year cycle is a traditional and significant period in Hinduism, and the event is not scheduled to occur every 10 years.
  • Option C: This is incorrect. The Kumbh Mela is not held every 7 years. The 7-year cycle is not associated with the Kumbh Mela, and the event is scheduled to occur every 12 years.
  • Option D: This is incorrect. The Kumbh Mela is not held every 5 years. The 5-year cycle is not relevant to the Kumbh Mela, and the event is scheduled to occur every 12 years.

Mnemonic: Every dozen years, the Kumbh Mela comes around.

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