The Calling of the Mahakumbh: A Personal Journey

Half a billion people and still counting. A staggering number at Mahakumbh. But what brings so many people to one sacred place? Is it the sacred dip? No. It's something far greater than themselves. If everyone were to share their Mahakumbh story, you’d be overwhelmed by a sea of experiences, filled with faith of all kinds—sometimes pure, sometimes raw, but always sincere, irrespective of being soiled. The Mahakumbh isn’t just an event. It’s a soul-stirring journey, lessons for entrepreneurs, wisdom for believers, and nothing for naysayers. I am sharing mine, owning it 100%.

Mahakumbh felt like the perfect place to reconnect with the ancient energy.

On the early morning of February 10, 2025, at 6:30 AM, I arrived in the sacred city of Prayagraj, greeted by its timeless essence. Going to the Kumbh felt like a calling I couldn't ignore. Just as millions are drawn to the mesmerizing pull of Coldplay’s concerts, there is a community that feels drawn to the Mahakumbh. Everyone has their own reason + intention. Some come to meet the sadhus and immerse themselves in the energy of the akharas. Others seek divine peace, hoping for a life-changing experience. For me it is about a journey towards walking ahead with the energy of Santana… something I was born into but started understanding the meaning, importance of it in 2015.

Soaked, facing my Kshadripus (The Six Enemies)

Mahakumbh is a pilgrimage, as you walk miles ahead to reach the Triveni ghats, you would be soaked in the sweat of your Kshadripus Kama (Lust) Krodha ( Anger) Lobha (Greed) Mada (Arrogance) Moha (Delusion) Matsarya(Jealousy) that you would want to let go. The moment of forgiving yourself and others, as if cleansing to realign yourself. At that moment, when you stand at the Sangam, there’s a feeling of forgiveness—not just for others but for yourself too. You feel lighter, realigned with a greater purpose. The Mahakumbh, at its core, is about shedding the burdens of the past and embracing a more profound version of yourself.

We Are All One in God’s Eyes

Reaching the Mahakumbh’s holy spot was not easy. Our journey started with a challenge—our car had to be parked outside the city, and we had to ride a bike to the ghats. My family—my mother, father, brother, and I—took the ride, and it gave me an insight I’ll never forget. During the ride, I spoke to our bike rider, a humble construction worker. He was accompanied by others—rickshaw drivers, electricians, and even a college student. Each person, with their own life story, was on their way to the same destination.

It was a beautiful reminder: In the eyes of God, we are all the same. The hats we wear—our professions, our status, our wealth—are just temporary labels. What truly matters is our karmas, the good deeds we do, and the lives we touch. Mahakumbh taught me to respect all professions, for each one has its own dignity.

Humanity vs. Class

As I walked through the crowds, I realized something remarkable: it wasn’t about who you were. It wasn’t about the clothes you wore, or your title, or your status. It was all about your journey, your inner purpose. It was a stream of people walking in unity towards the same goal: the Triveni Sangam.

As we moved, our car stayed behind, and all we had with us was a bag on our shoulders. At that moment, I understood that the things we think are important—the cars, the comforts, the luxury—are just temporary distractions. The things that truly matter are the loved ones around you, the bond you share, and the strength you draw from each other and who do you walk with?

Have goals or stay confused.

After a long, tiring walk under the scorching sun, nothing mattered more than reaching the Triveni Sangam. The goal was clear, and nothing—no discomfort, no obstacle—could deter us. Once we arrived and took the holy dip, the sense of relief and happiness was palpable. It was a beautiful lesson in focus and perseverance. When you have a goal in mind, when your heart and soul are aligned with that goal, nothing can stop you from reaching it.

The Power of an Idea: We are all part of something much bigger.

The Mahakumbh is a celebration of faith, unity, and the power of collective belief. It’s an idea that has stood the test of time, an idea that has brought together over 500 million people from around the world, all united in their devotion.

In a world so fast-paced and divided by class, wealth, and status, the Mahakumbh reminds us that we are all part of something much bigger. It’s a call to return to our roots.

No matter who we are, we are all connected.

At the Mahakumbh, I realized something truly profound: no matter how busy we get in life, no matter how different we are in terms of our wealth, job, or social status, there is an inner calling that unites us all. It is the call of spirituality, the desire to reconnect with the divine, and the yearning for peace and purity. No matter who we are, we are all connected and the only thing that truly matters is our journey towards self-realization.

May we all find peace, love, and unity on our paths.