WORLD HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -The Ganges River is most sacred in the Hindu tradition. It is understood as the personification of the Goddess Ganga. Hindu belief holds that bathing in the river on certain occasions causes the forgiveness of transgressions and helps attain salvation.

Detailed explanation-2: -Ganga (Sanskrit: , romanized: Gaṅgā) is the personification of the river Ganges, who is worshipped by Hindus as the goddess of purification and forgiveness.

Detailed explanation-3: -For Hindus, each river is a manifestation of a god or goddess. Hence, they are sacred and purifying. Taking a dip in the rivers is not only auspicious but also washes away sins and misfortune. Therefore, it is customary for Hindus to make a pilgrimage to sacred rivers and take a ritual bath in them.

Detailed explanation-4: -The river water of Ganga-Gangajaal is equated to nectar in Indian traditions due to its purity and sanctity. The ashes of the deceased are also let into this river for it is considered to be a gateway for a peaceful departure to heaven.

Detailed explanation-5: -Places of Hindu pilgrimage, called tirthas, that are situated on the Ganges have particular significance. Hindus cast the ashes of their dead into the river, believing that this gives the deceased direct passage to heaven, and cremation temples have been built in many places on the banks of the Ganges.