<h4>Understanding the Maha Kumbh Mela</h4><p>The <strong>Maha Kumbh Mela</strong> is a highly significant Hindu pilgrimage and festival, renowned for its immense scale and spiritual importance. It is celebrated at <strong>Prayag</strong>, also known as <strong>Prayagraj</strong>, one of the four sacred sites for the Kumbh Mela.</p><div class="key-point-box">This event is considered one of the largest peaceful gatherings in the world, attracting millions of devotees.</div><h4>Frequency of Maha Kumbh Mela</h4><p>The <strong>Maha Kumbh Mela</strong> occurs with exceptional rarity. It is celebrated <strong>after 144 years</strong>, making it a once-in-a-lifetime event for many.</p><div class="info-box">This long interval corresponds to the completion of <strong>12 'Purna Kumbh Melas'</strong>. Each Purna Kumbh Mela occurs approximately every 12 years at one of the four sites.</div><h4>Understanding the Maagh Kumbh</h4><p>In contrast to the Maha Kumbh, the <strong>Maagh Kumbh</strong> is an annual event. It is celebrated every year in the sacred city of <strong>Prayagraj</strong>.</p><div class="info-box">The <strong>Maagh Kumbh</strong> takes place specifically in the Hindu calendar month of <strong>Maagh</strong>, which typically falls between <strong>January and February</strong> in the Gregorian calendar.</div><div class="exam-tip-box">It's crucial to distinguish between the infrequent <strong>Maha Kumbh</strong> and the annual <strong>Maagh Kumbh</strong> for UPSC Prelims.</div>