About 48 Kos Tirth Sammelan
The 48 Kos Tirth Sammelan (Conclave of Pilgrimage Sites within the 48 Kos Region) is a vital administrative and spiritual event held during the International Gita Mahotsav (IGM). It focuses specifically on the vast historical and spiritual geography of Kurukshetra.
The Concept of the 48 Kos
The term 48 Kos refers to the traditional sacred boundary (approximately 96 miles or 150 km in circumference) of the holy region of Kurukshetra, known as Dharmakshetra Kurukshetra (the field of righteousness) as mentioned in the opening verse of the Bhagavad Gita. This area is believed to encompass numerous ancient Tirthas (sacred water bodies, temples, and historical sites) across multiple districts, where events related to the Vedas, the Mahabharata, and Lord Krishna’s discourse took place. Historically, it was believed to contain 367 such sites.
Purpose of the Sammelan
The Sammelan (conclave) is organized by the government and the Kurukshetra Development Board (KDB) to:
Review and Development: It brings together the representatives and management committees (Tirtha Samitis) of all the identified pilgrimage sites within the 48 Kos circuit. The main objective is to review the progress of ongoing development and restoration work at these Tirthas.
Issue Resolution: It provides a critical forum where the Tirtha Samitis can raise concerns related to the upkeep of the sites, such as issues concerning water sources for the Sarovars, drainage problems, and infrastructure needs, with the Chief Minister and other high-level officials.
Documentation and Revival: The Sammelan is used to officially release documentation, such as books or reports, detailing the history and significance of the identified Tirthas. This is part of the government’s commitment to revive and restore the glory of the entire sacred circuit.
Pilgrimage Circuit: The Sammelan is used to announce and formalize plans for establishing a complete pilgrimage circuit (Parikrama) covering all the Tirthas within the 48 Kos region, often involving the active participation of the Tirtha Samiti representatives, similar to other famous pilgrimages like the Braj 84-Kosi Yatra.
In summary, the 48 Kos Tirth Sammelan is the primary event where the government and local spiritual custodians meet to strategize the preservation, promotion, and comprehensive development of the entire sacred landscape of Kurukshetra, ensuring its heritage is protected for future generations.
