Nashik: The Nasik-Trimbakeshwar Simhastha Kumbh Mela was inaugurated by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis in Nashik and Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh in Trimbakeshwar on Tuesday morning.

The inauguration was marked with poojas, hymns and traditional flag hoisting at both venues amidst tight security.

Fadnavis hoisted the flag in Nashik while Singh did the honours in Trimbakeshwar, both on the banks of the Godavari River, around 45 kms apart.

Several thousands of pilgrims, mendicants and holy men, officials from various departments and tourists will witness the dozenal event, which is held once in 12 years.

The inaugural was followed by thousands marching to the Godavari River for the first holy bath of Kumbh Mela 2015.

Nasik Kumbh Mela Schedule of Events

14th July 2015 (Tuesday): Flag hoisting of the main ceremony at Ram Kunda

14th August 2015 (Friday): Flag hoisting of the Akhara at Sadhugram

26th August 2015 (Wednesday): Shravan Shudha- First Snan

29th August 2015 (Saturday): Shravan Purnima – First Shahi Snan at Ram Kunda

13th September 2015 (Sunday): Bhadrapad Amavasya – Second Shahi Snan/ Main bathing day

18th September 2015 (Friday): Bhadrapad Shukla Panchmi (Rushipanchami) – Third Shahi Snan

25th September 2015 (Friday): Bhadrapad Shukla Dwadashi – Vaman Dwadashi Snan