which among the following astronomical bodies location decides the timing of mahakumbh mela?
Which astronomical body’s location decides the timing of the Mahakumbh Mela?
Answer:
The timing of the Mahakumbh Mela is primarily determined by the positions of the Sun, Moon, and Jupiter (Brihaspati).
Step 1: Understand the Concept
The Mahakumbh Mela is a major Hindu religious gathering held cyclically at four river-bank pilgrimage sites in India: Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad), Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain. The festival’s timing is intricately linked to the astrological positions of certain celestial bodies.
- Sun: The Sun’s position is crucial for determining the specific signs that influence the timing of the festival.
- Moon: The Moon’s phase and positioning in the astrological chart also play a significant role.
- Jupiter: Jupiter’s transit points to the timing of when the festival will occur at a particular location.
Step 2: Celestial Combinations
Each Kumbh Mela location has a unique astrological combination, primarily involving the position of Jupiter:
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Prayagraj (Allahabad): The Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj is held when Jupiter is in Aries or Taurus, and the Sun and Moon are in Capricorn during the month of Magha (approximately January-February).
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Haridwar: The Kumbh Mela at Haridwar occurs when Jupiter is in Aquarius while the Sun is in Aries (Chaitra month, around March-April).
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Ujjain: The Mela is held when Jupiter is in Leo with the Sun in Aries.
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Nashik: The event happens when Jupiter is in Leo, and the Sun and Moon align in Cancer during the month of Bhadrapada (approximately August-September).
Step 3: Apply the Astrological Formula
Astrologers use these positions to create a calendar for the Kumbh Mela which guides religious practices and festivals at each location. Adjustments are made to the festival dates based on the alignment of these celestial bodies.
Final Answer:
The location of the Sun, Moon, and Jupiter (Brihaspati) determines the timing of the Mahakumbh Mela. Each festival is held based on specific combinations of these celestial bodies’ positions in various astrological signs, ensuring that dates align with Hindu traditions and celestial cycles.