Godavari, also known as Goda (cow given), Vriddhaganga (older Ganga) and Dakshinganga (Ganga of South), is an important river associated with Hinduism and it flows through Maharashtra, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. It is mentioned as a holy river in the Purana, Ramayana and the Mahabharata. The river is not mentioned in the Vedas.
Godavari River begins it journey at Nashik-Traymbak in Maharashtra, it flow eastwards, gets inflows from various tributaries and joins Bay of Bengal in two main streams, Gautami Godavari and Vashishtha Godavari.
It is believed that there are seven forks of the river. Each is named after a sage in the Saptarishi list. Among the seven, three have disappeared.
Story of Origin of Godavari River in Hinduism
As per Puranas, there was severe drought for 12 years one earth. Sage Gautama was moved by the plight of living beings without water. The sage performed intense penance and propitiated Varuna, the God of the seas and water. Varuna gave Gautama a pit, which would supply with endless amount of water. This was the source of Godavari River.
Holiness of Godavari River in Hinduism
Bhagavan Sri Ram visited Panchavati near Nashik on the banks of the Godavari River. He also visited and stayed at Bhadrachalam on the banks of the river during his search for Mata Sita.
One of the 12 Jyotirlinga temples dedicated to Lord Shiva is located at Trayambaka, where the Godavari originates.
Bhadrachalam Sri Rama temple is located on the banks of the River.
Benefits of Taking Holy Dip in Godavari
There are different beliefs regarding the benefits of holy dip in Godavari River. The benefits change as the river flows through various regions.
It is believed that taking holy dip in the river on auspicious days in a Hindu lunar year will help in achieving sin redemption and with it moksha, liberation, from the endless cycles of birth and death.
Childless couples will be blessed with children if they perform pilgrimage to the seven streams of Godavari – Saptasagara Yatra.
Every twelve years a pushkaram is held on the banks of the river. This happens during the alignment of a particular rashi and sun. Godavari Pushkaram is the holiest among the 12 pushkarams and it helps in washing off sins.
The waters of the river are believed to have medicinal properties. It is believed to cure serious ailments like leprosy.