Mon Feb 10 10:06:21 UTC 2025: ## Three-Day Kumbh Mela Begins in Karnataka
**Mysuru, Karnataka (February 10, 2025)** – The 13th Kumbh Mela commenced today at T.Narsipur, Karnataka, drawing thousands of devotees to the confluence of the Cauvery, Kapila, and mythical Spatika Sarovara rivers. The three-day religious festival, which began with religious rites including a Gana Homa at the Agastyeshwara temple, is held every three years, offering a regional alternative to the larger Kumbh Melas in Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik.
Devotees visited several ancient temples in the area before participating in the holy dip at the confluence, guided by prominent seers. The district administration has implemented extensive security measures, deploying over 1,200 police personnel, including 11 SPs, 4 Additional SPs, and 27 inspectors, along with expert divers. Barricades have been installed to ensure bather safety.
Deputy Commissioner G. Lakshmikanth Reddy stated that the event will feature daily religious gatherings, culminating in a Ganga Aarthi-style ceremony on February 11th. The main Kumbh Punya Snana (holy dip) is scheduled for February 12th. Cultural programs featuring folk troupes from Mysuru and surrounding districts will be held each evening. The Mela, initiated in 1989, aims to provide a more accessible pilgrimage site for those unable to attend the larger Kumbh Melas.
First Piper 