Bhagirath, riding on a celestial chariot, descended from the heavens, leading the sacred river, Ganga. The gods, showering flowers upon him, blessed his divine mission. As Bhagirath approached the majestic Sumeru Mountain, a formidable range adorned with numerous peaks and intricate tunnels at its base, Ganga followed closely behind. Upon reaching the base of the mountain, Ganga began to flow through its labyrinthine tunnels. However, she soon found herself lost within an underground cave, unable to find an exit. Noticing Ganga's absence, Bhagirath retraced his steps and fervently prayed to her, imploring her to continue her journey to provide salvation to his ancestors. Ganga, echoing from the depths of the mountain, explained her predicament. She urged Bhagirath to seek the help of Airavat, the mighty elephant of Indra, to break through the mountain and create a passage for her. Determined, Bhagirath began to pray to Indra, beseeching him to send Airavat to their aid. Moved...

The Oxus River (known as Amu Darya ) and the Ganga River (Ganges) are two of the most historically significant rivers, tied deeply to the cultures and civilizations of Central and South Asia. Though geographically distant, they share similar roles in shaping history, spirituality, and economics in their respective regions. Let’s explore both rivers, their histories, and symbolic importance. 1. Oxus River (Amu Darya) Geography & Source : The Amu Darya, historically known as the Oxus River, originates from the Pamir Mountains (Tajikistan and Afghanistan) and flows northwest across Central Asia into the Aral Sea. It runs through multiple countries, including Tajikistan, Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, making it one of the major rivers of the region. Historical Significance : Ancient Civilizations : The Oxus was the lifeblood of ancient Central Asian civilizations, including the Bactrians and Sogdians, thriving on its banks. The river created fertile floodplains that suppo...

Ganga, the sacred river in Hinduism, is often referred to as "Angrijha," a name derived from a significant episode in ancient Hindu mythology. The term "Angrijha" translates to "water used to wash the feet," specifically referring to the feet of Bhagavan Vishnu. Here's a more detailed account of the legend and its significance: The Legend of Bhagirath and the Descent of Ganga Bhagirath's Ancestry and Quest: Bhagirath, a prince of the ruling family of Ayodhya, was a descendant of the legendary King Sagara. His father, King Dilipa, had passed away, and Bhagirath was born by the grace of Shiva. Troubled by the taunts of his peers about his fatherless status, Bhagirath learned from his mothers about his lineage and the story of his great-grandfather, Sagara. The Curse and the Need for Ganga: King Sagara had 60,000 sons who were cursed by a sage and turned into ashes. The curse could only be lifted, and their souls liberated, by the holy wat...

From heaven, Bhagirath and the divine river, Ganga, journeyed towards Kailasha, the abode of Lord Shiva. Bhagirath was on a divine mission to bring Ganga down to the earth, but he was acutely aware of the potential consequences. If Ganga descended directly to the earth, her immense force would be unbearable, causing catastrophic collapse. Understanding the gravity of the situation, Ganga herself acknowledged that only Shiva possessed the power to contain and regulate her force. Bhagirath, leaving Ganga behind, embarked on a journey of devotion to seek Shiva’s assistance. Upon reaching Kailasha, Bhagirath fervently prayed to Shiva, who inquired the reason for his visit yet again. Bhagirath explained the dilemma: the earth was too fragile to endure the tremendous weight and velocity of Ganga’s descent. He earnestly requested Shiva’s intervention to moderate her speed and prevent disaster. Moved by Bhagirath’s devotion and recognizing the urgency, Shiva agreed to assist. In a dramat...

One day, in the celestial realms of the heavens, Lord Shiva, the supreme ascetic and cosmic dancer, began to sing. The vibrations of his voice resonated through the cosmos, filling every corner of the universe with an otherworldly melody. His singing was not just melodious; it was imbued with divine energy and spiritual potency, a manifestation of his profound connection to the very essence of existence. As Shiva's divine notes floated through the heavens, they reached the ears of Lord Narayana, also known as Vishnu, the Preserver and Protector of the universe. Narayana, who embodies the principles of compassion, maintenance, and order, was deeply moved by the beauty and sanctity of Shiva's singing. The melody penetrated his being, evoking an intense emotional and spiritual response. Such was the power and purity of Shiva's song that Narayana found himself overwhelmed by the experience. His divine form, usually composed and serene, began to transform. Overcome with an i...

Ganga Dussehra, also known as Maa Ganga Dashahara, is a 10-day festival dedicated to Goddess Ganga (River Ganga or the Ganges ). In 2026, Ganga Dussehra festival date is from June 15 to June 24. Ganga Dussehra 2026 date is June 24. The festival is celebrated during the first ten days of the Jyeshta Month (May – June) – the first 10 days during the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of moon). It is believed that Goddess Ganga touched the earth on the 10th day of the Shukla Paksha of Jyeshta. Legend has it that King Bhagirath performed intense austerities to bring down Ganga on to earth so that his ancestors are relieved of their sins. Finally, Ganga descended from heaven and Lord Shiva held Her in his matted locks so that the power of Goddess does not destroy the earth. She then traveled to earth purifying all that she touched. Numerous ceremonies are held on the occasion including pujas, prayers, and other rituals. In recent years, with human greed destroying and polluting...

The Ganges River, often referred to as the Ganga, holds immense importance to Hindus for a variety of religious, cultural, and historical reasons: Spiritual Significance: The Ganga is considered sacred and divine in Hinduism. It is believed to be the physical manifestation of the goddess Ganga, who is considered one of the holiest deities in Hindu mythology. Hindus believe that bathing in the Ganga can cleanse one's bad karma and purify the soul. Historical and Mythological Significance: The Ganga is intimately associated with many Hindu legends and scriptures, particularly the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. It is believed to have descended from heaven to Earth to purify the souls of the departed. The river is also associated with the birth and early life of Lord Krishna and is mentioned in several other Hindu epics. Ritual Practices: Hindus use water from the Ganga in various religious ceremonies, including puja (worship), weddings, and death rituals. It is believed that th...

Ganga Saptami is believed to be the day when Ganga River descended onto Earth. In 2026, the date of Ganga Saptami is April 23. Some scholars call it as the birthday or birth anniversary of Goddess Ganga. The day is also known as Jahnu Saptami. It is mentioned in numerous Hindu scriptures that Ganga descended on earth on the seventh day of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of moon) in Vaisakha month. This is an important festival for many spiritual organizations. Special pujas and rituals are offered to Goddess Ganga on the day. Importance of Ganga Saptami - Ganga River Festival  Details of Goddess Ganga descending on to the earth on the seventh during the Shukla Paksha of Vaisakh month is mentioned in the Padma Purana and Narada Purana. Ganga was brought down on to earth by King Bhagiratha. He did this for the salvation of his ancestors who were turned into ashes by Sage Kapila. All the 60,000 ancestors of King Bhagiratha attained moksha. From that day onwards Gang...

There are numerous stories in Hindu tradition regarding the origin of Ganga. One such story states that the Origin of Ganga happened during the Vamana Avatar – Vishnu’s incarnation as the dwarf Vaman. Legend has it that King Bali was a performing a Yajna to obtain the throne of Indra. All Devas approached Vishnu to help them from the expected rule of King Bali. Vishnu promised to help them and appeared in the form of Vamana – a dwarf. On seeing Vamana in the Yajna, King Bali received Him and prayed to him to take some gift from him. Bali told Vamana that whatever He demands, he will give. Vamana demanded just three steps of land and He said He would like to measure it all by himself. King Bali was surprised at this simple request and agreed to it. Soon, the short statured Vamana grew in size – so huge that it was impossible to describe in words. With his first step, Vamana covered all of Earth. His second step covered all of the Heaven. There was no place for the ...

Assi Ghat is located at the southern end of Varanasi at the confluence of Asi River and Ganga River. Thousands of devotees take holy dip here and then offer prayers to a beautiful Shivling consecrated under a peepal tree. Another Shivling that is worshipped here is that of Assi-Sangameshwar – Shiva as the lord of confluence. As per Puranas, Goddess Durga threw her sword here after killing Demons Shumbha and Nishumbha. Another legend has it that during the fight with demons, the sword of Durga struck here and the Assi river sprang forth from the spot. The Ghat is mentioned in Matsya Purana, Agni Purana, Kurma Purana, Padma Purana and Kashi Khanda of Skanda Purana. Tulsidas wrote the Ramcharitmanas here. Thousands of devotee arrive at the ghat to take holy bath in the month of Magh (January - February) and Chaitra (March - April). Makar Sankranti (Jan 14/15) is of importance here. Another important date here is the Hari Prabodhini Ekadasi in November. Apart from this tho...

King Bhagiratha had brought Ganga down on to earth through intense austerities to free the souls of his ancestors. But during the journey of the river from Himalayas to Gangasagar in Bengal there were numerous difficulties. One such story is that of Ganga being captured by Sage Jhanva in his ear. Due to this incident Ganga is also known as Jhanvi. King Bhagiratha rode his horse swiftly down the Himalayan slopes and the Holy Ganga River was following him. The ashes of his ancestors were lying at present day Gangasagar. On the way, the king passed through the ashram of Sage Jhanva. But Ganga was about to destroy the Ashram of the sage. To avoid any trouble to his ashram and its living beings, the powerful sage calmly took her into his body through the left ear. Soon King Bhagiratha discovered that Ganga was not following him. He then returned to the ashram of Sage Jhanva and pleaded with the sage to release the holy river. The Sage obliged and allowed the ...

Zebrafish that lives in the Ganga River , the holy river in Hinduism, could trigger a revolution in the treatment of heart disease – which could lead to the end of heart-transplant surgery. Medical researchers working with the British Heart Foundation are claiming to have discovered a small protein molecule in zebrafish that appears to play a critical role in orchestrating the repair of damaged cardiac muscle. Zebrafish is a tiny tropical fish found in the Ganga River . It is also today widely found in aquariums. Mother Nature Network reports Zebrafish can regenerate damaged cardiac tissue at an incredible rate. In just a week's time, a zebrafish can repair as much as 20 percent of its heart muscle. Now medical researchers working with the British Heart Foundation hope that insight into the fish's amazing ability could lead to the development of new treatments that will one day allow the human heart to heal itself too. "Scientifically, mending hum...

Manikarnika Ghat is the most famous ghat in Varanasi and it is associated with earrings of Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Manikarnika Ghat is also known as the burning ghat as corpses are burned here. Cremations are conducted at all time of the day and night here. It is believed in Hinduism that those who get cremated at the Manikarnika Ghat will escape from the cycle of birth and death. Why Corpses Are Burned At Manikarnika Ghat? It is widely believed that by getting cremated on the Manikarnika Ghat, one will escape from the cycle of birth and death. As per Matsya Purana, those who are cremated here will attain moksha. Manikarnika Ghat Story Legend has it that Lord Vishnu dug a pit here with his chakra to fill his perspiration created by intense austerities performed. The pit can be still found here. People sprinkle water from this pit on their head and body as an act of purification. Another legend has it that an earring Manikarnika of Shiva fell into the pit and henc...

In the Himalayas , Holy River Ganga is known as Bhagirathi. The reason why Holy River Ganga is known as Bhagirathi because it was King Bhagiratha's desire to free the souls of his ancestors that brought Holy River Ganga from heaven to earth. He performed intense austerities (Tapas) first to Ganga to come down to earth. When Ganga agreed, there was a problem as her fall from the sky to earth will destroy Mother Earth. To overcome this problem the king performed Tapas for several years to Shiva. Only Mahadev could capture the might fall of Ganga to earth. Shiva agreed. In memory of the intense austerities performed by King Bhagirathi to bring Holy Ganga down to earth, the river is known as Bhagirathi in the Himalayas and is an important distributary in Bengal . Bhagirathi River in Bengal After traveling for about 2,075 kilometers in hills and plains in the states of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal, the Ganga River divides into two distributar...

Bathing in Ganga is considered one of the holiest acts in Hinduism. It is considered highly meritorious to take bath in Ganga at Varanasi . But what makes the holy dip at Kashi or Varanasi even more auspicious in Hinduism? Importance of Bathing in Ganga River At Varanasi in Hinduism Ganga River at Kashi is Uttar Vahini – flowing towards north. This makes the holy dip here highly auspicious. North is also believed to be the direction of Moksha. Himalayas are located in the North. Another belief is that Shiva resides permanently at Kashi as Vishwanath. Therefore a holy dip at Ganga in Kashi is endowed with special merits. It is widely believed by Hindus that a dip in Ganga at Varanasi will help in cleansing the sins committed in this birth and all the previous births. This will help in sin redemption and thus to escape from the cycle of birth and death. A aim of every Hindu is to attain moksha or liberation. Today, this means escape from repeated births in various...

Millions of people bath in the River Ganga, or Ganges , during Kumbh Mela, Magh Mela and on other auspicious days? But rarely have we heard about the breakout of a major epidemic like Cholera or other waterborne diseases. Industrial waste and human waste is dumped into Ganga at several points but Ganga continues to amaze everyone with its purifying power. So what is the science behind the extraordinary power of Ganga ? And does science have the all the clues to the purifying properties of Ganges ? In Hinduism, there is frequently a connection between mythology and science. Hindu scriptures say that bathing in Ganga purifies the sins of this birth and previous birth. Ganga Ma, or Mother Ganga, is a Goddess in Hinduism. Puranas and epics extol her greatness and she descends to the earth from the matted locks of Lord Shiva. A dying Hindu’s last wish is to have a few drops of Ganga water. Hindus have always believed that River Ganga has extraordinary power and it prevents disea...

Iconographic representations of Goddess Ganga vary from region to region. Local traditions depict Murti, or idol, of Goddess Ganga based on their local beliefs. In Hindu Temples, river Goddess Ganga is depicted as a young maiden. She holds an overflowing pot of water. She travels on an aquatic animal known as Makara – similar to crocodile. Symbolically, this murti conveys the idea of abundance and fertility, which nourishes the living beings. In some images Goddess Ganga is also represented as a mermaid wearing a crown and bearing on her forehead markings of sacred ash. In this form She is associated with Shiva. In some images she is depicted as a beautiful woman with the lower half of the body being flowing water. This symbolizes her cleansing and purifying attributes. Her popular emblems are water pot, flying whist and lotus. Her Vahana or Vehicle is Makara – a hybrid aquatic animal – it has the body of a crocodile, tail of a fish with feathery fronds, depic...

Jhanvi is one among the numerous names of Ganga River. Here is the reason why Ganga is known as  Jahnavi .  KingBhagirath  performed intense tapas to bring Ganga down on earth to wash away the sins of his forefathers. Finally, Bhagirath succeeded in bringing Ganga down from heaven to earth. Ganga followed the footsteps of Bhagirath. He led her down the mountains into the plains.  The feisty Ganga continued to flow with a powerful current and she flooded the hermitage of Sage Jahnu - present day Ajgaivinath Temple at Sultanganj in Bhagalpur in Bihar. The sacred fire was extinguished and all the items of the ashram were destroyed. Sage Jahnu became furious. He chanted a mantra and sipped some water from Ganga. This resulted in the disappearance of Ganga. A worried King Bhagirath explained to the sage about the need for Ganga to flow on earth. Sage Jahnu was moved by the plight of King Bhagirath and he allowed the river to flow fr...

Ganga Lahiri, dedicated to Ganga River, is a poem composed by Jagannatha, a poet at the court of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan during the 17 th century. Jagannatha, a Brahmin, fell in love with a Muslim woman. Here is the story of the composition of Ganga Lahiri. The poet and his lover were banished by their communities. They were forced to flee. Wherever they went, they were ostracised. After wandering for several years, they reached Kashi (Varanasi). Here too they were unwelcome. The couple sat atop the 52 steps of the Panchaganga Ghat on the banks of Ganga River in Varnasi. Here Jagannatha composed the 52 verses of Ganga Lahiri. It extols Ganga River as mother, comforter and the last refuge of all who are rejected and are helpless. Legend has it that Ganga River ascended step by step as each verse was composed. When 52 verses were completed, Mother Ganga embraced the poet and his beloved and carried them away. A few verses from Ganga Lahiri Translated by Diana...

Ghats, or stone steps, leading from the banks to Ganga River are an important feature of Benaras or Kashi. There are more than 100 ghats in the Holy City of Benaras. Here are the names of the most important ghats in Varanasi. Asi Ghat – It is located in the southern end of Varanasi at the confluence of Asi and Ganga River. Two important Shivlings are located here. Dasaswamedh or  Dashashwamedh    – It is located near Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Brahma performed ten horse sacrifices here. Manikarnika Ghat – cremations are conducted here. Panchaganga Ghat – Four invisible rivers meet Ganga here. Barna Ghat – It is located on the northeast end of Varanasi. It is on the confluence of Barna River and Ganga. Trilochan Temple Ghat – The ghat is part of the Trilochan Temple.