Kumbh's history is very old and originates from mythology and the beginning of time, when the Amrita
Kalasha (pot of nectar of immortality) was recovered from Samudramanthan (the churning of the
primordial sea). During this churning process, the Mandara Mountain was used as a churning rod, and
Vasuki, the king of serpents, acted as the rope for the churning. In this entire churning process,
Dhanwantari, the divine healer, appeared with the "Kumbh" containing the nectar, in his hands. However,
the legend continues that both the Demons and The Gods wanted possession of the Immortal Nectar and
a tense war ensured.
For twelve days and twelve nights (equivalent to twelve human years) the Gods and Demons fought in
the sky for the possession of the Kumbh. And it is said that during the battle, drops of amrita
(nectar), fell on to Earth in four places: Haridwar, Allahabad, Ujjain and Nasik.
To commemorate this holy event of the Amrita Kalasha, the Kumbh Mela is celebrated at these
four places every 12 years.
