Kalpavaasis
ICH Research & Documentation »
Description
Kalpavaas is one of the most significant rituals during the festival of Kumbh, a way of spiritual growth. The kalpavaasis practice this month-long ritual in hopes of attaining freedom from the cycle of birth and rebirth. They set up camps near the Sangam and offer prayers to the river Ganga. They take a ritual bath or snaan daily to clear away all remnants of past sins and perils. The kalpavaasis are known for their strict rules and adherence to the practice. They follow certain tenets like satyavachan (honesty), brahmacharya (the practice of celibacy), vrat (fasting), dev pujan (praying to the gods), satsang, giving alms, etc. The devotees lead a very simple life, away from the usual demands of a materialistic existence. They concentrate on religious and spiritual matters for the kalpavaas period.
Project Title
The Ganga Project
DOCUMENT TYPE
image
Identifier:
ALL_018
Related Term
Customs and Rituals
Related place
Allahabad
USE RESTRICTIONS
In Copyright
RIGHTS HOLDER
INTACH
