Fair and Festivals in Nasik

Fairs and Festivals of Nasik

Kumbh Mela in Nasik, Maharashtra,India

          Nasik, situated on the banks of the river of Godavari in the state of Maharashtra, is prominent pilgrimage center in India.  The city of Nasik is rich in its culture. It celebrates all major national festivals of the country with much pomp and show.  But there are some fairs and festivals which Nasik celebrates on large scale and for which the city of Nasik is known.

         Kumbh Mela is one of most prominent Hindu fair held every three years, rotating among four places Haridwar, Ujjain, Aallahbad and Nasik. Purna (full) Kumbh Mela is held once in twelve years at one of these four places. Maha Kumbh Mela comes after twelve such Purna Kumbh Melas (after 144 years) in Allahabad. It is attended by lakhs of devotees from across the country and outside. Next Kumbh Mela at Nasik will be held in the year 2015 from August 15 to September 13.

          Rathyatra is another major religious event in Nasik. It is celebrated on the occasion of Janmotsav festival which is celebrated from the first day of Chaitra to the full moon day of that month. Chariots in which idols of lord Rama and his wife Sita are placed are moved in the city. The Rathyatra is attended by thousands of devotees from far and wide. Makar Sakranti is another festival celebrated with full zest in Nasik.