The first recorded history of large groups of people holding a religious gathering here came from the dairy of a Chinese traveler dating back to 500 AD. In the diary, he described thousands of people coming to the opening day of the month-long festival hoping to be blessed with some of the wisdom of the Gurus.

Some come to bathe in the holy rivers, while others come to make offerings for the peaceful afterlife of their dead ancestors. Often, they arrive with a small bundle of some of their most needed personal effects or a small statue of their most sacred deity. Whatever their purpose is, individuals often simply want a chance to share in the experience. Soon, families and whole villages join together creating new relationships and strengthening old ones.

Hindus believe that one of the ways to gain merit or "good karma" is to go on pilgrimage to some holy place at least once in a lifetime. According to the ancient myth, the huge river bank beside the city of Allahabad, also known as "Prayag", is one such place. During Kumba Mela, a giant tent city is erected below the great, red fort at Allahabad. On this vast open plain, the multitudes will come together to live, pray, and celebrate. This year is the largest Mela ever to be held. It is said to have taken place here every twelve years going back for countless centuries.