Many rivers flow from the Himalayas, but no one can show such a unique distinction as the Ganga River does. The Himalayas remain one of the most mystic places in the world. It is also the origin of many rivers, such as the Ganges Mata, aka Ganges River, Indus River, Sutlej River, and Brahmaputra. Many people have wondered why the Ganges River remains one of the sacred rivers in the world and why it remains distinctive amongst its contemporary rivers.
Spiritual Origin
For most people, the Ganga River remain one of the sacred rivers, and some even consider it the mother river. According to Hindu scripture, the Ganga River originates from Lord Shiva’s hair strand. King Bhagiratha’s penance pleased Lord Brahma, who granted his wish to bring Ganga down to Earth. Lord Shiva controls the river’s force by entangling Ganga in his hair and releasing her in streams onto Earth. This entangling Ganga in his hair becomes the source or birth of Ganga.
Himalayan Origin
The Ganges River originates from the Gangotri Glacier in Uttarakhand, India. It is one of the major rivers of the Indian subcontinent and holds immense cultural and religious significance for Hindus. The river flows through several states before falling into the Bay of Bengal.
Contrary to Spiritual Believe
In India, The Ganges River, also known as the Ganges, is one of the longest and most sacred rivers, spanning approximately 2,525 kilometres (1,569 mi). The river provides water for millions of people for drinking, agricultural and industrial purposes. Despite its sacredness, it faces pollution and numerous environmental challenges. There are many surveys on Ganga Rivers; Here are some timelines:
- Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) held one survey in May 2019. In this survey, they said: “The water of the holy river Ganga was unfit for direct drinking“.
- UP Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) held another survey in Oct 2019. In this survey, they said: ‘The river water is unfit even for bathing“.
But, In March 2021, a lockdown happened, and every industry remain closed as per Indian and State Government instructions and guidelines. Every individual had to isolate in their home. As a consequence, Gange’s water quality has improved drastically. Six months later the Lockdown period, water reportedly became drinkable as a consequence of the significant change in Lockdown. Whatever humans couldn’t do for a long time for Ganga Preservation, Lockdown accomplished in a matter of months.
Alternate our beliefs to become a new reality for Ganga Perseverance
As we have already mentioned, Whatever humans couldn’t do for a long time for Ganga Preservation, Lockdown has accomplished in a matter of months. Hence, it seems evident that nature can restore itself without human efforts. So, we have to make some efforts and adjustments to help or improve the condition of the Ganges River to maintain its sacred nature and human existence essence. Without totally relying on Government and State Government efforts, we have to come together to make the Ganges River restore its historical glory for future generations.