Kumbh is considered as an event with religious and spiritual importance. But is there any science behind the Kumbh snan (bath)? Is there any importance of Kumbh for our younger generation? Chandan Sharma of fachcha.com talked to Dr. Pranab Pandya, Chancellor of Devsanskriti Vishvvidyalaya, Shantikunj, Haridwar and head of Brahmvarchas Shodh Sansthan, in this regard in detail. Brahmvarchas has done a lot of scientific research on Kumbh. Excerpts:

CS:Puranas say a lot about Kumbh but what is the importance of Kumbh for our younger generation?
Dr. Pandya: See, Kumbh Snan (bath) is a metaphor basically. It is not possible that everybody come to Haridwar and takes dip in the Ganga. Neither it is possible that all sins will be removed automatically by just taking a dip during the Kumbh. But it is the fact that it is the biggest religious event of Hindus. People, throughout the world come here to participate in the event. In a way, it is the biggest conglomeration of variety of cultures, heritages, languages, lifestyles and so on. This is a wonderful opportunity for our younger generation to understand Indian and world culture through Kumbh. It comes once in 12 year.

CS: Astrology gives many ideas about Kumbh but what are the scientific aspects of Kumbh? Is there is any science behind Kumbh?
Dr. Pandya: There is science behind Kumbh. We had taken an initiative to understand scientific aspects of Kumbh during 1998 at Brahmvarchas. We found that there are several bio-chemical changes in human during the Kumbh period. There is increase in those chemicals and elements in the body, which cause happiness and give better feeling in the human being. These also increase our capabilities to work and think better and longer and reduce poisonous or bad chemicals. In a way it is an event of purification of man and environment.

CS: How will you explain its importance in terms of science and spirituality?
Dr. Pandya: See, those, who have idea about Kundalini Jagran or higher level of Yoga they will easily connect Kumbh and its relationship with spirituality and science. The period of Kumbh is the best period for Kundalini Jagaran. It is a systematic but very high level of spiritual science. This also paves the way of Moksha or what you call complete freedom.

CS: Is there any connection with climate change and Kumbh?
Dr. Pandya: Yes there is. The Kumbh makes aware millions of people about the importance of Ganga, its cleanliness, so the importance of glaciers and the Himalayas too. All these have important place in the climate change. Moreover, it makes people sensitive about climate change without any specific effort. This is the power of religion, spirituality and science.