Triveni Sangam Allahabad

The word “Sangam” originates from Sanskrit language which means the confluence of three rivers. These three rivers are Ganga, Yamuna and the mystical Saraswati. However, the river Saraswati is invisible. According to popular beliefs, it flows underground and joins the two rivers. This Sangam is called Triveni Sangam.

This confluence is at Prayaga which is Allahabad‘s ancient name. The legendary Kumbha mela is held there every 12 years. The Sangam is a sacred place for Hindus. A bath here washes away one’s sins. It also frees one from the cycle of rebirth to finally attain ‘Moksha’.

The sacred holy site of sangam is located at about 7 km from Civil Township at Allahabad in Uttar Pradesh.

History of the Kumbha Mela

The word Kumbha means the immortal Pot of Nectar, which the Demigods (Devtas) and Demons (Asuras) fought over. Our ancient scriptures like the puranas also mention how the demigods and demons together made the nectar of immortality and decided to share it equally.

Thereafter, to churn the portion of the milky ocean they came at the sea shore. Then they used Mandara Mountain as the churning rod.  But a deadly poison was produced at first. Lord Shiva drank the poison but it did not harm him. However, a few drops were spilled and licked by serpents and reptiles.

After 1000 years of churning, Dhanwantari appeared with the Kumbh of immortal nectar in his hands. The demigods were fearful of the demons’ ill intent. So, they forcibly seized the pot and entrusted its safety to the four Gods – Brahaspati, Surya, Shani, and Chandra.

Significance of Triveni Sangam

• Mrs. Indira Gandhi used to come here for a holy dip.
• Pilgrims take bathe on various platforms erected at the confluence. Also, migratory birds give a beautiful look to the river during the Kumbh Mela. Thousands of devotees from all around the world gather here during this time.
• According to beliefs, it is the place where drops of the nectar fell from the pitcher, from the hands of the Gods.
• The Rig Veda says, “Those who bath at the place where the two rivers, white and dark, flow together, rise up to heaven”.
• The classical Sanskrit poet Kalidasa praised the Sangam. He described the white waters of the Ganga with the blue waters of the Yamuna as if they were a string of pearls and sapphires combined, or a garland of white and blue lotuses intertwined.

Festivals at Triveni Sangam

• One of the most revered festivals – the Kumbha Festival is held at Prayag on the lunar conjunction day.
• During the period of Kumbha Mela spiritual bathing takes place. It is because devotees believe that a thousand times stronger confluence occurs. Apart from self-purification purposes, thousands of people also come to the shores during Kumbha Mela to offer pind for their deceased parents.

How to reach Triveni Sangam Allahabad

• Air: Regular flights are easily available from major cities to Allahabad. Bamrauli airport is the nearest.
• Rail: You can also get regular trains to Allahabad from other major cities of the country. Nearby Railway Station(s) are- chheoki (COI), allahabad junction (ALD), allahabad city (ALY), naini (NYN), phaphamau junction (PFM), prayag (PRG), subedarganj (SFG), bamhrauli (BMU).
• Road: there are quite a number of bus stops connecting to major areas.

Hotels nearby Triveni Sangam

• Hotel Crown Palace at Rambagh Hewett road of South Malaka is a grand place to check in. It is close to the area and has a great view to look at.
• Hotel Kanha Shyam at strachay road civil lines is another great place to tuck in. It has well suited accommodations and reasonable pricings.

Places to visit nearby Triveni Sangam

• Allahabad fort is a great place to visit and it is archeologically important. Furthermore, it gives you beautiful visibility from top including the famous Sangam of Allahabad.
• Shankar Viman Mandapam is near to the Sangam. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Moreover, it has south Indian architecture. Also, a beautiful view of Sangam can be enjoyed from the top floor of this temple.
• Alopi Devi Mandir is one of the foremost shaktipeeth. Many people come to visit it to offer their prayers and receive blessings from Devi Ma.

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