The traditional Kumbh Mela, a festival spanning nearly a century, has commenced across 500 bighas of land in the Kadambari Union of Rajoir Upazila, Madaripur.
The event is organised annually on the 13th of the Bengali month of Jaistha amidst an atmosphere of religious solemnity and festive fervor.
While formal records indicate the Mela has been organised since 1312 BS, local tradition suggests the festival was initiated approximately 130 years ago by 13 saints (Sadhus) with a humble contribution of 13 kilograms of rice and 13 Taka. Although the primary event is hosted on 350 bighas, the fair’s activities have expanded to encompass nearly 500 bighas of the surrounding area.
Organisers report that the massive gathering attracts hundreds of thousands of devotees and visitors from both home and abroad. Approximately 20 lakh (2 million) Hindu devotees attend the Mela annually, with participants travelling from various Asian countries in addition to all parts of Bangladesh.
Jiban Bose, President of the Mela Celebration Committee and President of the Bangladesh Puja Udjapan Front, Madaripur District Branch, stated that the committee is working tirelessly to ensure the event is completed in a disciplined manner. “Extensive measures have been taken to ensure the security and convenience of the devotees and visitors,” Bose added.
Local law enforcement is also heavily involved in the proceedings. Haridas Roy, Police Inspector of Madaripur Sadar Police Station, confirmed that police personnel are on duty to ensure the Mela remains peaceful, while other administrative officials maintain constant supervision.
