tHe GaNgAsAgAr mElA

Every year pilgrims from all over the country gather in kolkata in mid-January to be part of what is considered to be one of the most sacred pilgrimages according to Hindu beliefs- the Ganga Sagar Mela. Tourists, pilgrims, sages gather in Kolkata some weeks prior to the main ritualistic bath at the GangaSagar premises in Canning. Camps are setup by various organizations and sages from all over the nation assemble near Babughat, next to the Mohun Bagan Stadium.

Its almost like a fair where people come just to be in company with these holy men and seek their blessings and stuff.

This sage is allegedly 106 years old and has hair thats long and hard enough to pull a small cart infact. A very nice man he is.:)

The sage below belongs to the Naga community that worships Lord Shiva and are known to be a little aggresive in nature..

They say 'sab tirtha barbar,gangasagar ekbar'..

Kumbha mela happens every 12years, Gangasagar repeats every year..

This saying originated from the fact that it was really difficult to go to the venue of this event as access was very limited..

Now it no longer applies with AC Buses and direct trains plying and providing great service to the eager pilgrims..