VISUAL SYMBOLISM IN MAHA KUMBH AKHARA PROCESSIONS: EMBODIED PERFORMANCE OF SANATAN DHARMA
ShodhKosh Journal of Visual and Performing Arts May 7, 2026 Gaurav Rohitbhai Umretiya, Dr. Sunil H Der
At the 2025 Prayagraj Maha Kumbh, the grand processions (peshwais) of 13 akharas embody Sanatan Dharma as a form of knowledge transmitted through movement and ritual, transforming the chaos of the Triveni Sangam into cosmic order for an estimated 50 crore pilgrims. Saffron-clad Nagas, flags, tridents, and ash-smeared bodies create a kinetic spectacle that counters Western depictions of the Kumbh as merely a large gathering. The authors argue that these processions function as living scripture, where flags dissolve ego, weapons channel divine energy, and bodies enact ancient fire rituals.