Understanding the notion of Spaces in Indian Context (taking a case of Kumbh Mela) through the paradoxes these spaces hold within itself. Taking the case of Kumbh Mela, one was able to portray out the experiential journey of 2001, 2007 & 2013 Kumbh Melas. Moreover, they gave a variety of understanding through extreme cases of these paradoxes, which are appearing in greater amplitude, due to the small time frame this event comes out on the calender, but leaves a strong impact on the minds & history of mankind altogether.
The paper begins with understanding the Kumbh Mela as an amalgamation of paradoxes. These paradoxes are found everywhere, from the simplicity of the Kalpwasis, to the extravaganza of the Akharas; from the holy dip in the river to the desire of authentic travel experience; from the Mahayagyas for world peace to the banners promoting ‘Thanda’; from the organizational order to the stampedes. The idea is to question the very basics of these paradoxes that live together and are demonstrated in the very same spaces which are considered as the most sacred and pious by millions and millions of people.
These paradoxes point towards an inherent phenomenon of the understanding of these spaces in two ways. First is the abstract notion of these spaces, which intend these spaces to be ‘Ideal’ in nature. Second is the perception of this idealism (open to all), to understand this notion of space in their own terminologies, giving their own definitions to the space according to their understanding. This abstraction and the manifestation of its understanding, creates conflicting ideologies between the different perceptions, which in turn gives rise to the Portrayed Spaces. This Portrayed Space is an outcome of manipulation of tension between Ideal and perceived spaces. The paper tries to conclude by recognizing and questioning a few of these factors which dominate the manifestation and creation of these spaces as Portrayed Spaces, and not as the Ideal spaces.
Since Critical Theory, it is just an ideal, but con be an utopical possibility concept if you change for it. See, Herbert Marcuse, Unidimensional man, 1967.
Ideal space, depending on the exact location and purpose of the space, is hard to come by because not everyone has the same experience in each area. Because the end result is that of a personal experience (mental and emotional interpretation) it would be hard to get the end result perfect or near perfect for that very reason.
Ideal locations can be a reality if, and only if, it has a single purpose and it is to be used for that very purpose. The more general the purpose is, the better the experience someone will take away from it. If, though, the purpose is very specific, then there is a higher chance that not everyone will be able to achieve that exact purpose and may leave feeling let down by the event or location. One case would be that of a public park. The purpose of a park is very general. It holds many purposes and meanings for individuals and the chances of that space having a negative impact on a person is very low.
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