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The Holy River Ganga
Ganges river is
lifeline of the most sacred river of Hindu India. It originates as
the Bhagirathi River from the (Click link for more info and facts
about Gangotri Glacier) Gangotri Glacier which lies at altitude in
the Uttaranchal Himalaya Mountains to the north of (A republic in
the Asian subcontinent in southern Asia; second most populous
country in the world; achieved independence from the United Kingdom
in 1947) India and it joins the (Click link for more info and facts
about Alaknanda River) Alaknanda River near the town of Deoprayag to
form the Ganga. Valued not only for trade and irrigation but for
religious and sports value also.
People believe that
Ganga-Ganges resides on top of Shiva's head as his second
wife, the first being Parvati.
The stretch between
Kaudiyala and Rishikesh is very famous for river
rafting.
After traveling more than
200 km (125 mi), the river reaches the city of Haridwar,
is considered one of the holiest places along the river.
Major cities along
the river:
Haridwar
Rishikesh
Agra
Kanpur
Varanasi
Allahabad
Hindus believe that if they
die in Varanasi, one of India's oldest holiest cities,
their souls will be freed of sin, and will end the cycle
of life.
Festival of Ganga :
Ganga Dussehra
The first ten days of the month Jyeshtha, known
as Dashahara, are dedicated to honour the river Ganges. It is believed that if
one offers prayers on this day, one attains salvation from ten sins. The
festival's name Dussehra is derived from 'Dus' which connotes ten and ' hara'
which means defeat. Thus the name Ganga Dusshera.
Learn more about this festival.
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