The Ganges

The Ganges river is in many way the heart of Indian civilization. For many, the Ganges is a source of daily life. Additionally it is the most sacred river to Hindus. For Hindus, the river personifies the goddess Ganga. The story of the Ganges' genesis is told in the Ramayana.  

Sakara, one of Rama's ancestors had many sons. His sons hastily tried to kill a saint they believed responsible for hiding the horse sacrifice in the depths of the Earth. The innocent saint, with only a glare burned them to ashes. Years later, Sakara's grandson, Bhagiratha wanted to bring their spirits to rest. He prayed and meditated for 30,000 years to gain the spirituality necessary to bring the Ganga down from high heaven. Her force hitting the Earth would tear it apart, so Shiva appeared and allowed the full force to come down his head, then hit the Earth. The clean waters flowed across the Earth, filling the pit that Sakara's sons dug while looking for the horse. This pit became the Earth's oceans. This water descended down to the ashes of Sakara's sons, releasing their spirits. The waters then nourished the people. Its waters can grant salvation. 

Thousands today rely on the Ganges and bathe in its waters to ensure their salvation. 

Here are some pretty pictures of the Ganges river....