The most pious and sacred river, Ganges is a goddess in Hindu tradition. It is believed that the water of the Ganga cures ailments and diseases. The river is worshipped as Mother Goddess, that why also called “Maa Ganga”. But do you know, from where it is originated? How it reaches Rishikesh?
The longest river of India of length 2525 km, The Ganges originated from the Western Himalayas, in the state of Uttarakhand and flows through different parts of India and Bangladesh. Gangotri Glacier is the source of the origin of the river. The river, after flowing about 249 km that is, 156 miles through Himalayan Valley, leaves the Shivalik Hills and emerges from the mountains at Rishikesh. At Rishikesh, it holds spiritual as well as economic importance. After Rishikesh, the river enters the Gangetic Plain of Haridwar. Present conditions and modern technologies made the river polluted, but still at Rishikesh, the Ganga is clean.
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It is believed that taking a holy dip into the water of the Ganges free you from your sins and wrongdoings. Also, one can attain Moksha (Salvation) with the water of the Ganges.
Ganga in Rishikesh is famous for White Water River Rafting, which is certainly among the favorite adventure sports of local and travelers. The waves and tides of the Ganga river make River Rafting more adventurous and fun-loving than you think. You can challenge the waves of the Ganges and enjoy the ultimate water sport of River Rafting in Rishikesh.
Ganga Aarti – The most spiritual ambience
Ganga Aarti in Rishikesh is something that will soothe your mind and soul. As the dusk descends, Rishikesh is sanctioned by mesmerising Ganga Aarti at the various ghat. It is indeed, the powerful and uplifting ritual that will calm you from the inside out. This devotional ritual contains the offering of fire in the form of a lamp. The river Ganges, which in Hindu tradition considered as Maa Ganga blessed the whole Rishikesh with its presence. So, as a devotion, offering in the form of Ganga Aarti is made to the Goddess river. It is certainly the holiest river in Indian culture. The Ganga Aarti holds a spiritual significance on the occasion of Ganga Dusshera. It is believed that on the same day of Ganga Dusshera, Goddess Ganga in the form of the river descended to earth from heaven.
The ritual of Ganga Aarti begins with Pooja, which is followed by Mantras. After which, Dhoop Aarti is performed by the Pandits facing the river. The fragrance and smoke of the pious Dhoop creates a pleasant atmosphere and mesmerised you. After Dhoop Aarti is over, the lamps are lit and pandits (priests) circled them around facing the river and Ganga Aarti is sung by people. After this, devotees take the blessings of Maa Ganga by cupping their palms over the flame and raising their hands to the forehead. The spiritual evening of Ganga Aarti is then followed by divine Bhajans.
In Rishikesh, one can take the delight of Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat, Parmarth Niketan, Shatrughan Ghat and various other ghats.
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