Ganga originates from Gomukh in the Himalayas. Reference of Ganga is available in the Vedas and the Puranas. Ganga is known by 1000 names. According to Skandpuran, a person who takes a bath in Ganga on Ganga Dashmi, is blessed and goes to heaven. People have a lot of faith in the Ganga. During the recently concluded Ardh Kumbh in Haridwar, thousands of people took a holy bath in the river Ganga, which is worshiped as `Mokshdayini' (enabling people to attain salvation). Ganga is very dear to Lord Vishnu. She is also called as Visnupuri as she was born from the nail of Vishnu’s feet. According to Vayupuran, before coming to the earth, Ganga lived in the heaven. Bhagvat Puran states that descendents of king Sagar brought the Ganga to the earth from heaven after performing a lot of rituals. Ganga has played a significant role in drafting the economic structure of the country. Silted by the river, the vast tracts of Gangetic Plains became granaries for the people. Crop rotation, water harvesting and the toiling Indian farmer put many states on the path to prosperity. Down the ages, Ganga has been the source of farm and potable water, fish culture and several industries like timber and gold. It is difficult to visualise an urban civilisation, indeed our lives, without her. Modern life is dependent on water harvesting and hydel power without which our factories and mills would stop functioning. The Tehri dam on the Bhagirathi is one such project that will ensure drinking and irrigation water to many states, and generate hydro-electricity for multiple purposes.
Haridwar culture is an enchanting blend of tradition, history and religion. Considered as one of the seven holy seats of Hinduism, Haridwar can be proud of its cultural heritage. The old havelis, temples and mansions carry the rich Hindu architectural brilliance. Set amidst beautiful mountainous landscapes, Haridwar is one of the greatest centers of classical music and art forms. As per religious
