From the Ghat to the Heart: Love in the Chaos of MahaKumbh

Let’s be honest—when people talk about romantic trips, they imagine luxury resorts, candlelit dinners, or a beach vacay. So, when my husband and I decided to head to Mahakumbh instead of some romantic cliché, our friends were intrigued. “A pilgrimage? Seriously?” they asked. Someone even joked that it was the best way to lose your wife. Yes, seriously—and spoiler alert—it was one of the best decisions we’ve ever made for our relationship. 

Picture this: millions of people chanting, the smell of incense in the air, and a river bustling with devotion and energy. Not your typical couple’s getaway, right? But that’s the magic of Mahakumbh—it strips away the frills and makes you focus on the real stuff.

The highlight? Taking that holy dip in the Ganges together. Now, I’ll admit, the water was freezing, and we spent the first few seconds squealing like kids. But as the chills subsided, something profound happened. It wasn’t just a ritual; it felt like we were washing away not just “sins” but also petty arguments, grudges, and the stress of everyday life. We came out shivering but somehow lighter—like we’d pressed the reset button on “us.”

And then there was the chaos—the crowd, the noise, the non-stop activity. You’d think it’d be exhausting (and, okay, it was a bit), but navigating it together brought out our teamwork skills like never before. Who knew holding hands so we wouldn’t get lost in the crowd could feel so romantic? Who knew when he asked me to hoodie up in the Rickshaw could be a gesture of love? Who knew when he pulled me aside as the wave of sadhus brushed by could be a moment of emotions?

In between the spiritual talks, prayers, and the magical glow of the evening aartis, we found time to reflect—not just on life but on us. We laughed at how far we’ve come, shared dreams about the future, and even sneaked in a selfie or two amid the throng of pilgrims.

The trip wasn’t about romance in any which way. It was about discovering a deeper connection—a reminder that love isn’t just built in fancy settings. Sometimes, it’s found in shared silences, unspoken support, and plunging into sacred waters together (literally and metaphorically). 

We didn't need an insta worthy dinner under the stars, just a late night trip in the rickshaw to Shastri bridge was enough. We didn't need a private sunset on the beach, the rays of the rising sun on the ghats were enough. We didn't need a Gucci Bag, just the evil eye bracelet we brought back was enough. We didn't need an expensive meal, just sharing the Dominos pizza was enough. We didn't need to dress up to look attractive just the Tilak on the forehead was enough.

So, here’s my second pitch to sell the Mahakumbh to you: if you want a quirky yet transformative couple’s trip, skip the usual romantic ones. Go spiritual. Go Mahakumbh. It’s messy, chaotic, and completely unscripted—just like real love. And trust me, nothing says “I love you” quite like holding hands dodging the devotees.