Bathing in the Narmada River is considered highly
meritorious in Hinduism. The importance of bathing in Narmada River is
mentioned in the Matsya Purana. It is said that one gets redemption from sin by
bathing for three years in Saraswati River; for seven days in Yamuna River; for
one day in Ganga River. However, it is said that the mere sight of Narmada
absolves one of all sins.
It is believed that person who bathes in Narmada River
attains rudraloka (the realm of Shiva).
To explain the holiness of Narmada, it is said in Matsya
Purana that the tree growing on her banks are liberated from cycle of birth and
rebirth.
In Puranas, Narmada River is also known as Vishalya or healer
of wounds. Puranas extols her medicinal properties.