Why do millions of Indians, sometimes entire villages, brave the crowds to attend the Kumbh Mela? India Ink interviewed some of the estimated 100 million pilgrims who traveled to this year’s Kumbh Mela at Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh, a 55-day pilgrimage during which Hindus take a holy dip in the Ganges River to wash away their sins.
Latika Mandal, 38, a primary school teacher from the North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal was one among them. Here is what she had to say.
Why did you come to the Kumbh Mela this year? Is it your first time?
One in 100 Million
Voices From the Kumbh Mela
It is my first time at the Kumbh Mela, and I am very excited to come here. We had only heard about this from elders in our village. They told us of the number of people here, how we need to be careful and how beautiful and welcoming Mother Ganga is.
How have you found it so far?
I have loved it so far. Haven’t taken a dip, but have just about a kilometer and a half to go before I take a dip. We don’t realize how much we sin every day, and how important it is for us to wash them away for our children to be happy.
Describe your journey to the Kumbh. Did you travel alone? How long did it take?
I am here with my husband and aunt. We took the train until Raebareli, where we met more family and came here by bus. It was a very long journey. Took us a couple of days, but at least it was comfortable.
Do you consider yourself a religious person?
Of course! Who doesn’t? Religion, to me, means God. And God is truth.
Who do you think is going to win the 2014 election?
No idea. And I don’t care.