Malappuram, 19 ജനുവരി (H.S.)

Malappuram, Kerala: The historic sands of Thirunavaya, nestled along the serene banks of the Bharathapuzha (River Nila), have transformed into a sprawling hub of spiritual fervor as the Kerala Kumbh Mela officially commenced today. This grand congregation, which mirrors the ancient traditions of the North Indian Kumbh Melas, was ceremoniously inaugurated by the Honorable Governor, Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, who performed the traditional Dhvajarohanam (hoisting of the sacred flag).

The festival, which runs from today until February 3, 2026, marks one of the most significant spiritual gatherings in South India, drawing thousands of devotees, scholars, and ascetics from across the country.

A Confluence of Saints and Scholars

The atmosphere at Thirunavaya is thick with the scent of incense and the rhythmic chanting of Vedic hymns. Sanyasis and spiritual leaders from various prominent Mutts across South India began arriving at the venue on Sunday evening, setting the stage for a fortnight of intense devotion.

The inaugural ceremony was graced by several distinguished personalities, including Mahamagha Sabhapathi Mahamandaleshwar Swami Anandavanam Bharati, Working Chairman K. Damodaran, and Chief Coordinator K. Keshavadas. Representing the historic heritage of the region, K.C. Dileep Raja Arikkara of the Zamorin (Samoothiri) family and Sudheer Namboothiri were also in attendance, bridging the gap between Kerala’s royal past and its spiritual present.

Sacred Rituals and the Nila Arathi

The festival began on the auspicious day of Magha Gupta Navaratri. From the early hours of the dawn, devotees performed the Nisha Snanam (sacred dip) in the holy waters of the Nila, a ritual believed to cleanse the soul and bring spiritual merit.

A major highlight of the event is the daily Nila Arathi, scheduled for every evening. In a magnificent display of cultural synthesis, priests and scholars from Kashi (Varanasi) have been brought in to lead the ceremony. This ritual, performed with massive brass lamps to the accompaniment of bells and chants, follows the pattern of the world-famous Ganga Arathi, offering a breathtaking visual spectacle to the gathering crowds.

The Chariot Journey: From Origin to Confluence

Adding to the magnitude of the celebrations is the Sreechakram Rathayatra (Chariot Procession). The Bharathapuzha originates from the Thirumoorthi Hills in Tamil Nadu, and to honor this connection, a chariot journey commenced from the river's source this morning. Led by Acharya Yatishananadanathan of the Bharatiya Dharma Prachara Sabha, the procession will travel through various towns, receiving grand receptions before reaching its final destination at Thirunavaya on the evening of January 22.

Cultural and Social Significance

Beyond the rituals, the Kerala Kumbh Mela serves as a platform for cultural exchange. The Navamukunda Temple premises and the riverbanks have been extensively prepared to accommodate the influx of pilgrims. Organizers have ensured that large-scale Annadanam (free food distribution), medical camps, and resting shelters are available for all visitors.

The Kumbh Mela at Thirunavaya is more than just a religious event; it is a revival of the ancient Mamankam spirit—a celebration of heritage, water conservation, and communal harmony. Over the next two weeks, the banks of the Nila will witness a series of spiritual discourses, cultural performances, and seminars aimed at preserving Sanatana Dharma and the ecological sanctity of Kerala's rivers.

As the sun sets over the Nila, the glimmering lamps of the Arathi reflect a state in prayer, reaffirming Kerala’s deep-rooted connection to its spiritual and cultural identity.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Roshith K