Kumbh Mela Wayfinding

Self-Initiated Project

Overview

The project of designing signages and icons for the Kumbh Mela is a crucial task that requires a deep understanding of the event's cultural and spiritual significance, as well as the needs of the diverse group of people who will be attending. The goal of the project is to create clear, effective, and appropriate communication through the use of simple, visible, and culturally sensitive signages and icons.

Overall, the project aims to enhance the overall experience of the attendees by making navigation and information easily accessible.

History

According to Hindu mythology, Vishnu dropped drops of amrita (the drink of immortality) at four places, while transporting it in a Kumbha (pot). These four Nashik, and Haridwar, places, including Allahabad, are identified as the present-day sites of the Kumbh Mela. The river-side fair at Allahabad is centuries old, but its association with the Kumbha myth and a 12-year-old cycle dates back to the 19th century.

Rituals

Bathing and processions- Bathing, or a dip in the river waters with prayer, is the central ritual of the Kumbh Melas for all pilgrims. the Hindu pilgrims welcome and wait for the thirteen sadhu akharas to bathe first.
Feasts, festivities, and discussion- Most pilgrims stay for a day or two, but some stay the entire month of Magh during the festival and live an austere life during the stay. religious discussions, and devotional singing, laser light shows, classical dance, and musical performances, boat rides.
Darshan- Darshan, or viewing, is an important part of the Kumbh Mela. People make the pilgrimage to the Kumbh Mela specifically to observe and experience both the religious and secular aspects of the event. Two major groups that participate in the Kumbh Mela include the Sadhus (Hindu holy men) and pilgrims.

Activities And Events

Cultural events, Tourist Walks, Laser Light Show, Thematic Gates, Cruise rides, Shahi snan, Satsang.

Why Does Kumbh Mela Needs Icons And Signages

proper and effective signages and direction boards to guide the saints and travelers.
There is a massive crowd during Kumbh mela so communication guidance is a must.
No orientation or site-finding map on location in case anyone is lost.