What is special about the Ganges River?
Religious Significance and Mythology. To Hindus, the Ganges River is the most sacred body of water in the world with sacred pilgrimage sites and cities along its banks. The river itself is also the embodiment of the goddess Ganga, daughter of Himalaya, the mountain god.
What is the myth about Ganga?
In Hindu mythology the Ganges river was created when Vishnu, in his incarnation as the dwarf brahmin, took two steps to cross the universe. On the second step Vishnu’s big toe accidentally created a hole in the wall of the universe and through it spilled some of the waters of the River Mandakini.
How did Ganga River get its name?
It is believed that Bhagirathi River is the source Stream of Ganga River. It originates from Gaumukh, which is located at the base of Gangotri and Khatilang glaciers in Uttarakhand. The name of Bhagirathi is named after the ancient king Bhagirath, who performed penance to bring her down from the heavens.
What are some interesting facts about the Ganga river?
#2 This river originates at Gangotri glacier on the southern slopes of the Himalayas (a region bordering China), some 14,000 feet above sea level. #3 It is considered a ”tirtha” that symbolizes a crossing point between earth and heaven.
Why is the Ganga considered sacred in Hinduism?
For times immemorial, Ganga is considered sacred and the holiest of all rivers in Hinduism, the dominant religion in India. It has been mentioned throughout Indian literature from ancient times and is personified as the Goddess Ganga.
Is the word “Ganga” mentioned in Rig Veda?
Furthermore, the word ”Ganga” is mentioned in Rig Veda 6.45.31, but it is not clear if the reference is actually to the river. #6 It is considered the holiest river in India with massive religious, spiritual, and ritual significance.
Why does the Ganga river smell so bad?
River waters usually tend to putrefy as lack of oxygen promotes the growth of anaerobic bacteria that lends the water a distinct smell and stale taste. The water of Ganga though considered one of the dirtiest due to the sheer amount of sewage dumped in it every day, does not tend to putrefy over longer periods of storage.