Kerala to Host Kumbh Mela in January; Thirunavaya to be the Venue
Kerala is set to host the Kumbh Mela, a significant Hindu congregation that occurs once every twelve years, for the first time. Traditionally held in revered locations such as Haridwar, Ujjain, Nashik, and Prayagraj, this grand pilgrimage will now also take place in Thirunavaya, Malappuram district.
The Kumbh Mela will be held on the banks of the Bharathapuzha river, in front of the Nava Mukunda Temple in Thirunavaya, from January 18 to February 3, 2026. A crucial meeting scheduled for November 23 will finalize the formation of a reception committee for the organization of the festival.
The event will be overseen by Juna Akhara, the largest monastic order in India. This was confirmed by Mahamandaleshwar Swami Anandavanam Bharati of Juna Akhara to The New Indian Express. Swami Anandavanam Bharati recently visited the Thirunavaya temple last Wednesday to assess the preparations for the Mela.
Swami Anandavanam Bharati, a former SFI leader from Thrissur, made headlines when he embraced monasticism and later became the third Malayali to achieve the esteemed title of Mahamandaleshwar.
Swami Anandavanam Bharati highlighted Thirunavaya’s rich heritage, noting its traditional festivals mirror the grandeur of the North Indian Kumbh Mela. During the reign of Cheraman Perumal, a festival known as ‘Maha Makam’ was celebrated here every twelve years. This ancient event served as a platform for sacrifices, rituals, and the selection of new rulers. Over time, it evolved into ‘Mamankam,’ adopting a martial arts form. A similar tradition was also observed in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu.
Efforts to revive the Mamankam ceremonies in Thirunavaya began years ago. In 2016, the chief priest of the temple initiated ‘Nadi Puja’ ceremonies on the banks of the Bharathapuzha, a practice that has continued annually, except during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Building on these continuous efforts since 2016, a grand Maha Makam (Kumbh Mela) is planned for 2028. The 2026 Kumbh Mela serves as a preparatory event for this larger celebration.
For the upcoming festival, Juna Akhara will seek cooperation from the Malabar and Travancore Devaswom Boards, various ashrams in Kerala, and devotees from other Akhara orders.