Maha Kumbh: A Historical And Cultrural Hub Draws Attention For 14 Years

Prayagraj Maha Kumbh has fascinated visitors for centuries, including the Chinese. Renowned Chinese traveller Xuanzang praised the city in his writings over 1,400 years ago. His accounts highlight Prayagraj’s cultural, religious, and historical significance.

In 644 CE, Xuanzang visited the region during the reign of King Harshavardhana. He admired the area’s fertile land, abundant resources, and favorable climate. He also describes Maha Kumbh has fascinated visitors for centuries, including the Chinese. Renowned Chinese traveller Xuanzang praised the city in his writings over 1,400 years ago the people as humble, well-mannered, and devoted to learning.

Xuanzang’s detailed observations appear in his book Si-Yu-Ki. He noted large religious festivals at Prayagraj, where over 500,000 people gathered. Kings and rulers from across India participated in these events, donating generously to the community.

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The traveller also highlighted the famous temple at Prayagraj, believed to be the present-day Patalpuri Temple. According to him, a single coin offering at this temple equalled the merit of donating a thousand coins elsewhere. The Akshay Vat tree in the temple courtyard stood out for its wide-spreading branches and spiritual significance.

Xuanzang wrote about pilgrims fasting for seven days before eating rice and bathing at the Sangam. Wealthy visitors donated their riches after performing these rituals. The confluence of the Ganges and Yamuna rivers made Prayagraj a sacred destination.

Modern archaeological surveys in the Belan and Tons river regions reveal cultural progress from the Paleolithic to Neolithic periods. Excavations by Allahabad University uncovered ancient sites, pottery, and evidence of early human habitation.

Editor Anupam Parihar highlights Xuanzang’s role in documenting Prayagraj’s heritage. He compares King Harshavardhana’s initiatives to those of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The state government is spending over ₹6,000 crores to make the upcoming Maha Kumbh grand and memorable.

From ancient times to today, Prayagraj continues to captivate with its cultural richness and spiritual legacy.