Kalpvas: A sacred tradition of devotion and austerity at Maha Kumbh

At the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, the ancient tradition of Kalpvas continues to draw devotees from across the country, seeking spiritual growth and inner peace through a month-long practice of austerity.

Rohini Jha, a 68-year-old from Bihar’s Maithili region, is one of over 10 lakh devotees performing Kalpvas this year. Sleeping on the ground in her tent near the Sangam, she wakes early to take holy dips, sustains herself on one meal a day, and dedicates her time to prayer despite the biting cold.

"Kalpvas is about detachment from material comforts," said Jha, who is on her 11th Kalpvas. Accompanied by seven senior family members, she describes the practice as “living in pain,” which devotees believe brings them closer to God.

Kalpvas, a tradition rooted in Vedic texts like the Mahabharata and Ramcharitmanas, requires devotees to forsake modern comforts, reside in temporary tents near the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers, and dedicate themselves to religious activities. These include holy dips, attending spiritual discourses, and listening to devotional music.

Lawyer Shivanand Pandey, who takes a month off work each year for Kalpvas, highlighted the discipline involved. "Devotees take a pledge to follow austerity, patience, and devotion, bathing thrice daily and planting symbolic banana, tulsi, and barley plants," he said.

Neha Pandey, who has completed 12 Kalpvas, noted the importance of performing seva (service) for Kalpvasis. “The dawn dip at the Sangam is believed to cleanse the soul and lead to salvation,” she said.

The ongoing Maha Kumbh, which began on January 13, has already seen over seven crore pilgrims take a holy dip at the Sangam. Additional District Magistrate Vivek Chaturvedi stated that more than 15 lakh Kalpvasis are expected, with the administration ensuring their needs are met.

Seasoned Kalpvasis like 75-year-old Gopal Nuniwal emphasize that while the Kumbh has evolved over the years, the essence of Kalpvas remains unchanged. "It’s not just an event; it’s a way of life," he said.

For families like the Sharmas from Ballia, Kalpvas is a generational tradition. "It’s a time to reconnect with the divine and pass down the values of patience, resilience, and spirituality," said VK Sharma, who described their days as a blend of devotion, service, and shared experiences.

As the Maha Kumbh continues, Kalpvas serves as a testament to the enduring spiritual heritage of India, fostering a connection between the individual, the community, and the divine.