The Simhastha Kumbh is a celebration like no other in India. It is celebrated when Jupiter ascends into sun sign Leo's quarter or the Simha constellation of the zodiac, which is why it is called Simhastha.

Legend goes that when there was the churning of the ocean, and Gods and demons competed for the divine nectar of immortality, drops of nectar fell on four places. One of them was Ujjain. Hence, the river Shipra became the enhancer of life and the Kumbh Mela is held to celebrate this event. Millions of devotees throng the ghats of Shipra for the holy dip.