The Ganges River

The Ganges River, locally known as the Ganga, is like the heart and soul of India. It’s considered sacred by Hindus and plays an important part in the spiritual, artistic, and economic life of the country. Flowing more than 2,500 kilometers from the Himalayas to the Bay of Bengal, the Ganges speaks about the history of India and is a symbol of sanctification and renewal.

History of the Ganges

In Hindu mythology, the Ganges River is considered a goddess, Ganga, who descended from the heavens to purify the earth. According to legend, Ganga was brought to earth through the efforts of King Bhagiratha. Lord Shiva caught the river in his matted hair to break her fall, controlling her descent to prevent destruction of the earth.

The Ganges basin was home to some of the earliest urban settlements in India. The Indus Valley Civilization, initially associated with the Indus River, extended to the Ganges plains. As agriculture thrived along its fertile banks, cities like Varanasi and Pataliputra emerged as important cultural and political centers.

The Ganges region is also significant for the development of Buddhism and Jainism. The river’s vicinity saw the birth and spread of these religions, with numerous monasteries and stupas built along its banks. Nowadays millions of pilgrim’s go to the waters of the Ganges to perform sanctification rituals, believing that bathing in the Ganges cleanses sins and frees the soul from the cycle of reincarnation.

The Ghats on the Ganges

In cities like Varanasi and Rishikesh, the ghats, which are the stairs that descend to the river, are scenes ofl rituals. Various activities are carried out, from morning offerings to impressive fire ceremonies. These are meant to purify the soul, ask for blessings and honor their ancestors.

One of the most famous ceremonies is the Ganga Aarti, where priests gather at the riverbank and start to perform a synchronized ceremony, waving brass lamps in patterns while chanting hymns and ringing bells, to honor the Ganges.

Are you ready to start discovering India?

I decided to book a couple tours when I went to India and had an amazing experience! I’m leaving the link to the tour below in case you are interested!

Are you ready to start discovering India?

I decided to book a couple tours when I went to India and had an amazing experience! I’m leaving the link to the tour below in case you are interested!