The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, has officially begun in the northern Indian city of Prayagraj. Authorities estimate that over 20 million devotees will participate in the first major bathing day of this sacred festival, which is held once every 12 years. The event, deeply rooted in Hindu mythology, is a profound spiritual experience for millions who believe that bathing in the holy rivers will cleanse them of sins and help them attain salvation.
The festival kicked off with a breathtaking spectacle as Naga sadhus, the ash-smeared, dreadlocked Hindu holy men, took the first plunge into the icy waters at dawn. These ascetics, known for their austere lifestyles and spiritual devotion, are a central attraction of the kumbh Mela. Their ritualistic bathing marks the beginning of the festival, drawing millions of pilgrims who follow suit in the hope of spiritual purification.
The Kumbh Mela, also referred to as the Mahakumbh, is not just a religious event but a cultural phenomenon. This year, the festival started on Monday, with over 16.5 million pilgrims bathing in the sacred rivers on the first day alone.The sheer scale of the gathering is a testament to its meaning in Hinduism, where it is believed that participating in the rituals can liberate individuals from the cycle of birth and death.The Prayagraj mela Authority has been working tirelessly to ensure the smooth functioning of the event. Pilgrims can explore a variety of services designed to enhance their experience, from tent stays to guided tours.For those planning their pilgrimage,the official Kumbh Mela travel planner offers complete resources to make the journey seamless [[1]].
the festival is also a unique possibility to witness the diverse traditions of Hinduism. Naga sadhus from various Akharas (ascetic orders) have set up camps in Prayagraj, creating a vibrant tapestry of spiritual practices and rituals. These ascetics, who have traveled from different parts of the country, are a living embodiment of the festival’s ancient roots [[2]].
For those seeking more data on how to reach Prayagraj and participate in the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, the official website provides detailed guidance. The Prayagraj Mela Authority can be contacted at their office in Parade Ground, Daraganj, or via email at [email protected] [[3]].
Key Highlights of maha kumbh Mela 2025
Table of Contents
- Millions Gather for the Sacred Kumbh Mela Festival in Prayagraj
- The Kumbh Mela 2025: A Spiritual Spectacle in Prayagraj
- The Kumbh Mela: A Divine Spectacle of Faith and Tradition
| Aspect | Details |
|—————————|—————————————————————————–|
| Location | Prayagraj, Uttar pradesh |
| Duration | Held once every 12 years |
| Expected Attendance | Over 20 million pilgrims |
| Main Ritual | Bathing in the holy rivers for spiritual purification |
| Unique Feature | Participation of Naga sadhus and ascetics from various Akharas |
| Contact Information | Prayagraj Mela Authority, Parade Ground, Daraganj, Prayagraj - 211006 |
The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 is more than just a festival; it is a spiritual journey that transcends time and space. For millions, it is a chance to connect with their faith, cleanse their souls, and seek liberation. As the festival continues, the world watches in awe at the sheer devotion and scale of this remarkable event.kumbh Mela 2025: A Spectacle of Faith, Tradition, and Humanity’s Largest Gathering
The Kumbh Mela, often described as the largest human gathering on Earth, is set to captivate the world once again in 2025. Held in Prayagraj, India, this 45-day festival is expected to draw over 400 million pilgrims, devotees, and curious onlookers from across the globe. The sheer scale of the event is so immense that it can reportedly be seen from space, a testament to its grandeur and spiritual significance.
The Shahi Snan: A royal Bath of Divine Proportions
One of the most anticipated events of the Kumbh Mela is the Shahi Snan, or the royal bath. On Tuesday, the festival will witness a breathtaking procession of Naga sadhus—Hindu holy men adorned with ash, matted dreadlocks, and minimal clothing—marching towards the Sangam. This sacred confluence, where the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers meet, is believed to be a portal to spiritual purification.
The Naga sadhus are not just participants; they are the heart and soul of the festival. Their presence is a major draw for millions who flock to Prayagraj to seek their blessings. “Their outing is a major draw for people from across India and around the world who come to seek their blessings,” notes the report. For many, the act of bathing alongside these ascetics is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to imbibe the purity of their thoughts and deeds.
A Festival of Faith and Tradition
The Kumbh Mela is more than just a religious event; it is a cultural phenomenon that transcends borders. The festival’s roots trace back to ancient Hindu mythology, where it is believed that a few drops of the nectar of immortality fell at four locations in India, including Prayagraj. Every 12 years, the Kumbh Mela rotates among these sites, with Prayagraj hosting the most significant iteration.
The 2025 edition promises to be no different. With millions expected to participate, the festival will feature a vibrant mix of rituals, processions, and spiritual discourses. The Naga sadhus, with their colorful processions and austere lifestyles, will once again take center stage, embodying the essence of devotion and renunciation.
The Global Appeal of the Kumbh Mela
The Kumbh Mela is not just a gathering of the faithful; it is a spectacle that attracts global attention. From photographers capturing the vibrant hues of the festival to researchers studying its sociological impact, the event offers something for everyone. The BBC report highlights that the festival’s scale is so vast that it can be seen from space, a fact that underscores its unparalleled magnitude.for those unable to attend in person, the Kumbh Mela offers a unique opportunity to witness the convergence of faith, tradition, and humanity on a grand scale. The festival’s ability to bring together millions of people from diverse backgrounds is a testament to its enduring appeal.
Key Highlights of the Kumbh Mela 2025
| Aspect | Details |
|—————————|—————————————————————————–|
| Duration | 45 days |
| Expected Attendance | Over 400 million |
| Main Event | Shahi Snan (Royal Bath) |
| Sacred Site | Sangam (Confluence of Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers) |
| Key Participants | Naga Sadhus (Hindu holy men) |
| Global Significance | Largest human gathering, visible from space |
A Call to Witness History
The Kumbh Mela 2025 is not just a festival; it is indeed a living testament to the power of faith and tradition. Whether you are a spiritual seeker,a cultural enthusiast,or simply curious about the world’s largest gatherings,this event offers a unique opportunity to witness history in the making.
As the Naga sadhus prepare to lead the Shahi Snan, the world will once again turn its gaze to Prayagraj, where the rivers of faith and devotion converge in a spectacle unlike any other.Plan your journey to the Kumbh Mela 2025 and experience the magic of humanity’s largest gathering.
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For more information on the Kumbh Mela and its significance, visit the BBC’s coverage of the event.
Millions Gather for the Sacred Kumbh Mela Festival in Prayagraj
The Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, has begun in Prayagraj, India, drawing millions of pilgrims to the banks of the holy Ganges River. On the first day of the festival, 13th January 2025, more than 16.5 million devotees took a dip in the sacred waters, seeking spiritual purification and blessings.
The festival, which occurs every 12 years, is a vibrant celebration of faith, culture, and tradition. This year, the event is notably significant as it coincides with six auspicious bathing days, determined by astrologers based on the alignment of planets and constellations.
The Six Auspicious Bathing Days
The Kumbh Mela is marked by specific days considered highly auspicious for bathing in the Ganges. These dates are:
| Date | Occasion | Significance |
|—————|——————-|——————————————————————————-|
| 13 January | Paush Purnima | Marks the full moon of the Hindu month of Paush, symbolizing renewal.|
| 14 January | Makar Sankranti | Celebrates the sun’s transition into Capricorn, heralding longer days. |
| 29 January | Mauni Amavasya | A day of silence and introspection, considered ideal for spiritual cleansing.|
| 3 february | Basant Panchami | Honors the goddess Saraswati and the arrival of spring. |
| 12 February | Magh Purnima | The full moon of Magh, believed to amplify the spiritual benefits of bathing.|
These dates are not just religiously significant but also draw the largest crowds, with millions of pilgrims traveling from across India and beyond.
A Spiritual Spectacle
the Kumbh Mela is more than just a religious event; it is a cultural phenomenon. The festival transforms Prayagraj into a bustling hub of activity, with temporary tent cities, spiritual discourses, and vibrant processions. Pilgrims, clad in saffron robes, chant hymns and prayers, creating an atmosphere of devotion and unity.
one of the most striking images from the festival is that of a woman praying on the banks of the Ganges, captured by photographer Ankit Srinivas. The photo encapsulates the deep spiritual connection that devotees feel during this sacred event.
The Significance of the Ganges
For Hindus, the Ganges River is not just a body of water but a divine entity. Bathing in its waters during the Kumbh Mela is believed to wash away sins and lead to moksha (liberation from the cycle of rebirth). The river’s significance is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology, making it a focal point of the festival.
Challenges and Preparations
Hosting an event of this magnitude is no small feat. The Uttar Pradesh government has made extensive preparations to ensure the safety and comfort of pilgrims. Temporary bridges, medical camps, and sanitation facilities have been set up to accommodate the massive influx of visitors.
Despite these efforts, the sheer scale of the event poses challenges, including crowd management and environmental concerns. Authorities are working tirelessly to balance the spiritual needs of the pilgrims with the logistical demands of the festival.
A Call to Experience the Kumbh Mela
For those seeking a deeper understanding of India’s spiritual heritage, the Kumbh Mela offers a unique opportunity. Whether you are a devout pilgrim or a curious traveler, the festival provides a glimpse into the heart of Hindu culture and tradition.
As the festival continues, millions more are expected to converge on Prayagraj, making this year’s Kumbh Mela one of the most memorable in recent history.
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Have you ever attended the Kumbh Mela? Share your experiences in the comments below or explore more about the festival’s history and significance here.
The Kumbh Mela 2025: A Spiritual Spectacle in Prayagraj
The Kumbh mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, is set to take place in Prayagraj in January 2025. This ancient Hindu festival, which draws millions of devotees, is a vibrant celebration of faith, tradition, and spirituality. This year, the event promises to be even more grand, with authorities constructing a sprawling tented city spanning 4,000 hectares along the riverbank to accommodate the influx of pilgrims, holy men, and tourists.
The Arrival of the Naga Sadhus
Among the most revered participants of the Kumbh Mela are the Naga sadhus, ascetic holy men who are frequently enough seen smeared in ash and, in certain specific cases, fully naked. These ascetics, who renounce worldly possessions, are considered embodiments of devotion and austerity. Over the past few days, groups of these saints have been arriving at the mela grounds in large, noisy processions, captivating onlookers with their striking presence.
As one observer noted, “One group of ash-smeared holy men, some naked and some adorned in minimal attire, marched through the grounds, their chants echoing across the riverbank.” The Naga sadhus are not just participants but central figures in the festival, especially during the Shahi Snan (royal bath) days, when they lead the ritualistic bathing in the holy waters of the Ganges.
Key Dates and Rituals
The Kumbh Mela 2025 will feature several significant dates, with three designated as Shahi Snan days: 14 January, 29 January, and 3 February. The largest gathering is expected on 29 january, when an estimated 50 to 60 million worshippers are predicted to take part in the sacred bathing ritual.
Other important dates include:
- 15 January: Makar Sankranti
- 26 February: Maha Shivaratri
These dates mark pivotal moments in the festival, each carrying its own spiritual significance and drawing massive crowds.
| Key Dates | Significance |
|————————|————————————–|
| 14 January | Shahi snan (Royal Bath) |
| 29 January | Shahi Snan (Largest Gathering) |
| 3 February | Shahi Snan |
| 15 January | Makar Sankranti |
| 26 February | Maha shivaratri |
A Tented City for Millions
To manage the unprecedented scale of the event,authorities have transformed the riverbank into a temporary city. The 4,000-hectare tented city is equipped with essential amenities, including sanitation facilities, medical camps, and food stalls, ensuring the comfort and safety of attendees.
The festival is not just a spiritual gathering but also a logistical marvel. As one official remarked,”The Kumbh Mela is a testament to India’s ability to host events of this magnitude,blending tradition with modern infrastructure.”
A Festival of Faith and Unity
The Kumbh Mela is more than a religious event; it is a celebration of unity and diversity. Pilgrims from all walks of life, including tourists from around the globe, converge in prayagraj to witness this extraordinary spectacle.The festival serves as a reminder of the enduring power of faith and the shared human quest for spiritual enlightenment.
As the Naga sadhus prepare for their sacred rituals and millions of devotees gather by the river, the Kumbh Mela 2025 promises to be a transformative experience for all who attend.
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For more information on the Kumbh Mela and its significance, visit the BBC’s coverage of the event.
The Kumbh Mela: A Divine Spectacle of Faith and Tradition
The Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, is a mesmerizing blend of spirituality, mythology, and cultural grandeur. Held in Prayagraj, India, this festival draws millions of pilgrims, including Naga sadhus—Hindu holy men smeared in ash and adorned with marigold garlands—who march through the streets holding tridents, swords, and small two-headed drums. The 2025 edition of the festival, captured vividly by photographer Ankit Srinivas, offers a glimpse into the vibrant rituals and traditions that define this sacred event.
the Mythological Roots of the kumbh Mela
The origin of the Kumbh Mela is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. According to legend, the festival commemorates a celestial battle between gods and demons over a Kumbh (pitcher) of nectar that emerged during the churning of the ocean. As the two sides fought over the pot of elixir,drops of the nectar fell at four locations on Earth: Prayagraj,Haridwar,Nashik,and Ujjain. These sites now host the Kumbh Mela in a cyclical rotation, with Prayagraj being one of the most significant.
The festival is not just a religious event but a cultural phenomenon, where the spiritual and the earthly converge.The Naga sadhus,often dressed in loincloths or draped in marigold garlands,are central to the rituals. They lead processions, their ash-smeared bodies and tridents symbolizing their renunciation of worldly pleasures and their devotion to Lord Shiva.
A Spectacle of processions and Rituals
the Kumbh Mela is a visual and sensory feast. One of the most striking sights is the procession of akharas—groups of ascetics who set up sprawling camps across the festival grounds. These camps buzz with activity as tens of thousands of pilgrims visit to hear religious discourses or attend evening prayers.
in one procession, leaders of the akharas were escorted to their campsites in grand style, riding chariots accompanied by music bands, dancers, horses, and camels. The air was filled with the rhythmic beats of drums and the chants of devotees,creating an atmosphere of divine celebration.
The Naga sadhus, known for their austere lifestyle, participate in bathing rituals on special days, believing that a dip in the holy waters of the Ganges during the Kumbh Mela can cleanse them of their sins and lead to salvation.
The Cultural Significance of the Kumbh Mela
The Kumbh Mela is more than a religious gathering; it is indeed a testament to India’s rich cultural heritage. The festival brings together people from all walks of life,transcending social and economic barriers. It is indeed a time for spiritual reflection, communal harmony, and cultural exchange.
The sprawling camps of the akharas serve as hubs of activity, where pilgrims can engage in discussions, attend lectures, and participate in rituals. The festival also provides a platform for artisans and vendors to showcase their crafts, adding to the vibrant tapestry of the event.
key Highlights of the Kumbh Mela
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Location | Prayagraj, India |
| Main Participants | Naga sadhus, akharas, millions of pilgrims |
| Key Rituals | Bathing in the Ganges, processions, religious discourses |
| Mythological Origin | Battle between gods and demons over a pot of nectar |
| Cultural significance| A celebration of faith, tradition, and communal harmony |
A Call to Experience the Divine
The Kumbh Mela is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers a profound connection to spirituality and tradition. Whether you are a devout pilgrim or a curious traveler, the festival promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of India’s cultural and religious heritage.
As the Naga sadhus march through the streets of Prayagraj, their tridents held high and their chants echoing through the air, one cannot help but be moved by the sheer scale and devotion of this divine spectacle.
For more insights into the Kumbh Mela and its significance, explore the BBC’s coverage of the event, featuring stunning visuals and in-depth reporting.
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Immerse yourself in the spiritual grandeur of the Kumbh mela and witness the timeless traditions that continue to inspire millions.Millions Gather for the Maha Kumbh Mela,a Once-in-a-Lifetime Spiritual Event
The sacred waters of the Ganges River in Prayagraj,India,have become the epicenter of one of the world’s largest religious gatherings—the maha Kumbh Mela. This year’s festival, described as “extra special” by Hindu seer Mahant Ravindra Puri, is drawing millions of devotees seeking blessings and spiritual renewal.
The Kumbh Mela, held in four cities—Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nasik—is a centuries-old tradition rooted in Hindu mythology. According to legend, a few drops of the nectar of immortality spilled over and fell in these cities during a celestial battle between gods and demons. This year, the festival is particularly significant due to rare planetary alignments, making it a Maha Kumbh, or “Great Kumbh.”
A Divine Convergence
The bathing dates and auspicious times for the festival are meticulously calculated by astrologers, based on the alignment of specific planets and constellations. “We believe that during Kumbh Mela, the waters of the sacred river will be imbued with nectar,” says Mahant Puri, who is leading tens of thousands of holy men from his akhara (religious order) to the river for the ritual bath.
For devotees like Ankit Srinivas Chitiya Ahirvar, 60, who was among those who bathed in the Ganges on Monday, the festival is a deeply personal experience. “Ganga maiyya [the river goddess] will bless them with whatever they want, whatever they need,” Mahant Puri adds, emphasizing the faith that drives millions to participate.
The Heart of the Festival
While the Kumbh Mela is celebrated in all four cities, the largest gatherings are always held in Prayagraj, where the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers is believed to amplify the spiritual energy. This year, the city has transformed into a sprawling tent city, accommodating pilgrims from across India and beyond.
The festival is not just a religious event but also a cultural spectacle. Holy men, or sadhus, from various sects, adorned in saffron robes and ash, march to the riverbanks in grand processions.The air is filled with the sounds of devotional songs, chants, and the ringing of temple bells, creating an atmosphere of divine fervor.
A Table of Key details
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Cities Hosting Kumbh | Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, Nasik |
| Main Event Location | Prayagraj (largest gathering) |
| Significance | Rare planetary alignments make this a Maha Kumbh |
| Ritual Bath Dates | Determined by astrologers based on planetary positions |
| Key Figure | Mahant Ravindra Puri, leading thousands of holy men |
| Belief | Ganges waters imbued with nectar during the festival |
A Spiritual Journey
For many, the Kumbh Mela is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to cleanse their sins and attain spiritual liberation. The festival’s scale and significance are unparalleled, with millions braving the crowds and the elements to partake in the sacred rituals.
As the sun rises over the Ganges, the riverbanks come alive with the sight of devotees immersing themselves in the holy waters, their faces radiant with faith. The Kumbh Mela is not just a festival; it is a testament to the enduring power of belief and the timeless allure of the divine.
join the Conversation
Have you ever attended the Kumbh Mela or a similar spiritual gathering? Share your experiences in the comments below or explore more about the history of the Kumbh Mela to deepen your understanding of this extraordinary event.
(Image credit: BBC)The Kumbh Mela, one of Hinduism’s most revered festivals, is a spectacle of faith, tradition, and devotion. This year, millions of pilgrims, including saints, ascetics, and ordinary devotees, gathered in Prayagraj to partake in the sacred ritual of bathing in the holy river.among them was Chitiya Ahirvar, a 60-year-old woman from Madhya Pradesh, who traveled with a group of 20 to immerse herself in the spiritual experience.”I prayed to the river goddess for my children’s well-being and happiness,” Chitiya shared, her voice filled with emotion. Her journey to the Kumbh Mela was not just a pilgrimage but a heartfelt act of devotion. She bathed in the river on Monday and planned to return on Tuesday, a testament to her unwavering faith.
The Kumbh Mela is more than a festival; it’s a cultural phenomenon. Mavaram Patel, a businessman from Tamil Nadu, echoed this sentiment. ”Kumbh Mela is part of our ancient tradition. It’s one of Hinduism’s most critically important festivals,” he told the BBC. For Patel, visiting Prayagraj and bathing in the river was a long-held dream. “Visiting Prayagraj and bathing during Kumbh was on my bucket list for a long time, so I’m happy to be here,” he said.
Patel’s prayers were not just for his family but for the world. “I prayed to the river goddess for the happiness and welfare of my family and the wider world,” he added. His words reflect the collective spirit of the Kumbh Mela, where individual devotion merges with universal goodwill.
The festival’s significance lies in its ability to bring together people from diverse backgrounds. From the bustling mela grounds to the serene riverbanks, the atmosphere is electric with devotion. Pilgrims like Chitiya and Patel embody the essence of the Kumbh Mela, where faith transcends boundaries.
Key Highlights of the Kumbh Mela Experience
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Location | prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh |
| Main Ritual | Bathing in the holy river |
| Participants | Millions of pilgrims, including saints, ascetics, and ordinary devotees |
| Significance | One of Hinduism’s most important festivals |
| Personal Stories | Chitiya Ahirvar prayed for her children; Mavaram Patel for global welfare |
The Kumbh Mela is a reminder of India’s rich spiritual heritage. It’s a time when the mundane gives way to the divine, and the river becomes a conduit for blessings. For those who attend, it’s not just a festival but a transformative experience.
Have you ever witnessed the grandeur of the Kumbh Mela? Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments below. if you’re planning to visit, don’t forget to immerse yourself in the rituals and soak in the spiritual energy of this ancient festival.
Hundreds of miles to immerse herself in the Ganges. “This is my first time at the Kumbh Mela,” she shared, her voice trembling with emotion. “I have come to seek blessings for my family and to wash away my sins. The energy here is divine, and I feel closer to God than ever before.”
The Kumbh Mela is not just a religious event; it is indeed a cultural phenomenon that brings together people from all walks of life.The festival is a melting pot of traditions, where ancient rituals are performed alongside modern-day conveniences. From the grand processions of the Naga sadhus to the humble prayers of the common folk, the Kumbh Mela is a celebration of humanity’s quest for spiritual enlightenment.
The Role of the Naga Sadhus
The Naga sadhus, with their ash-smeared bodies and matted locks, are one of the most iconic sights at the Kumbh Mela. These ascetics, who have renounced worldly pleasures, are revered for their spiritual prowess and unwavering devotion. During the festival, they lead the processions to the river, their tridents held high, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. For many devotees, catching a glimpse of these holy men is a blessing in itself.
The significance of the Ritual Bath
The ritual bath, or Shahi Snan, is the highlight of the Kumbh Mela. Devotees believe that bathing in the Ganges during this auspicious time can cleanse them of their sins and lead to spiritual liberation. The exact dates for the ritual bath are determined by astrologers, who calculate the most favorable planetary alignments. This year, the alignment of Jupiter, the Sun, and the Moon has made the festival even more meaningful, marking it as a Maha Kumbh.
The Challenges of Hosting the Kumbh Mela
Organizing an event of this magnitude is no small feat.The city of Prayagraj transforms into a massive tent city, with temporary infrastructure set up to accommodate the millions of pilgrims. Authorities work tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of the attendees, managing everything from crowd control to sanitation. Despite the challenges, the spirit of the Kumbh mela remains undiminished, a testament to the resilience and dedication of all those involved.
A Global Attraction
The Kumbh Mela has also become a global attraction, drawing visitors from around the world who come to witness this unique blend of spirituality and culture. For many, it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, offering a glimpse into the heart of Hinduism and the enduring power of faith.The festival has been featured in numerous documentaries and news reports, bringing its message of peace and unity to a global audience.
Conclusion
As the sun sets over the Ganges, the riverbanks are illuminated by the glow of countless lamps, their light reflecting off the sacred waters. The air is filled with the sounds of devotional songs and the chants of the faithful, creating an atmosphere of profound serenity. The kumbh Mela is more than just a festival; it is a journey of the soul, a celebration of the divine, and a reminder of the timeless traditions that continue to inspire millions.
Join the Conversation
Have you ever attended the Kumbh Mela or a similar spiritual gathering? Share your experiences in the comments below or explore more about the history of the Kumbh Mela to deepen your understanding of this extraordinary event.
(Image credit: BBC)
