Significance of Holy Ganga

Holy Ganga refers to the sacred river in Hinduism, symbolizing purity and spiritual cleansing. Revered in Purana, it is depicted as descending from heaven and is known as the eldest daughter of Himalaya. The river is associated with King Bhagiratha's request for its earthly descent, embodying sanctity. It is honored as a splendid river that purifies the Universe, holds three presiding deities, and fulfills desires. Additionally, in Indian history, it signifies a pilgrimage site for spiritual cleansing.

Synonyms: Sacred ganges, River ganga, Ganga river, Ganges river, Holy river ganga, Divine ganga, Holy river ganges

In Dutch: Heilige Ganga; In Finnish: Pyhä Ganga; In Spanish: Sagrado Ganga

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Holy Ganga'

Hinduism Books

Holy Ganga in Hinduism symbolizes purity and sanctity as a sacred river descended from heaven, revered for its divine properties, fulfilling desires, and representing spiritual cleansing through its profound connections to deities and the universe.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)

(1) A revered aspect of the river Ganga, associated with divine beings and considered pure and blessed.[1] (2) The sacred river that descended from heaven, known as the eldest daughter of Himalaya, revered for its purifying properties.[2] (3) The sacred river that was requested by King Bhagiratha to descend to earth, symbolizing purity and sanctity.[3]

From: Gautami Mahatmya

(1) The holy Ganga is a splendid river that sanctifies the Universe and has three presiding deities, known for fulfilling all desires.[4]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Haribhakti-sudhodaya

(1) The sacred river in Hinduism, representing purity and spiritual cleansing.[5]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (‘ten avatars of Vishnu’).

The concept of Holy Ganga in local and regional sources

History Books

Holy Ganga is a sacred river in India, depicted by Kalidasa as nurturing nature and symbolizing spiritual cleansing. Pilgrimages along its banks reflect the importance of Ganga in personal and collective purification.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) The sacred river in Hinduism, symbolizing spiritual cleansing and pilgrimage.[6] (2) The sacred river in India, mentioned by Aunt Chandari in her final wishes, symbolizing spiritual significance.[7] (3) A sacred river that Kalidasa depicts washing the mountain-pines.[8]