What is the river Ganges?

Ganges is considered as purest of all rivers, according to Hindu mythology. It is believed that all the sins of a person taking a plunge into Ganges with sacred and selfless soul and heart have their sins washed away.

Its length is 2500 kms. , and it originates from Gangotri near Mansarovar lake on Kailash Mountain (believed as Lord Shiva abode).

It is believed that King Bhagirath from the dynasty of king Dileep worshiped lord Shiva, and Lord Brahma for Ganges to come on earth from heaven, for the redemption of his ancestors. Earth could not bear the force of Ganges so lord Shiva bestowed Bhagirath with the boon that he(Lord Shiva) will hold Ganges in his long hair.

Ganges came on earth and all the ancestors of Bhagirath got redemption.

People in India call Ganges - "Ganga Maa" i.e. mother Ganges.