Kerala Kumbh Mela concludes, draws over 20 lakh to Tirunavaya; 45-day fest planned next year

Tirunavaya (Malappuram): The Mahamagha Mahotsavam, which turned the banks of the Bharathapuzha (Nila) into a sea of people, concluded on a deeply devotional note. Thousands arrived even on the final day on Tuesday, at the yajna venue on the river—where, over 19 days, chants of sacred names, lamps, incense, music, and ritual arts created a deep spiritual experience. Unofficial estimates say that more than 20 lakh people visited Tirunavaya during the festival period.

The day—when the Makam star coincided with the Dwitiya tithi—began in the morning with Yogeeswara Puja (Parashurama Puja). This was followed by Amrita Snanam, the principal ritual of the Mahamagha, at the Arati Ghat on the Nila. Thousands of devotees, including Naga sanyasis, took part. In the belief that waters from India’s seven sacred rivers converge here, ascetics and devotees immersed themselves in the Nila.

Later, Yati Puja was offered to the sanyasis. The Bhandara—the ritual offering of food, clothing, and dakshina to sanyasis - was also held. A striking sight of equality unfolded at the Bhandara, with everyone seated in a single line and eating together in the traditional Pangat.

The Mahamagha Mahotsavam concluded with a beautiful Nila Arati at dusk. The river arati conducted on the middle of the stream, organised as an offering by the Mohanji Foundation, emerged as the main attraction of the Mahamagha—also known as the Kerala Kumbh Mela.

45-day festival next year

Expressing satisfaction that the Mahamagha exceeded expectations, Sabha Pati Mahamandaleshwar Anandavan Bharati said plans are underway to hold the festival in 2027 lasting for 45 days. If not, the festival will last at least 30 days. Organisational activities will begin this April. In 2028, the event is planned on a scale comparable to Prayagraj, worthy of being called a Maha Kumbh Mela. Acharyas from all traditions will participate, with rituals and observances from diverse schools of practice, Anandavan Bharati said.