These gatherings hold great spiritual significance and attract millions of devotees from across the world. The frequency of the melas varies, some occurring annually and the Maha Kumbh Mela (“Great Kumbh Festival”) taking place every 144 years in Prayagraj. The Maha Kumbh Mela is held every three years in each of four different locations, returning to each of four places every twelve years. An Ardh (half) Mela (festival) takes place six years after the Maha Kumbh in each location. Kumbh Mela is a Hindu festival that celebrates the divine nectar of immortality that fell on Earth. It is held every 12 years at four sacred locations in India, based on astrological alignments, and attracts millions of pilgrims who bathe in the rivers for salvation. Kumbh mela is celebrated every 4th year and Mahakumbh is celebrated every 144 years, marking it to be a very rare event to occur. Check more about difference between Kumbh and Mahakumbh
