Rivers always played an important role in the history of mankind. From the ages of earliest civilizations like Harappan, Egyptian till today, major cities and localities are river centric. Rivers act as a lifeline for agriculture, industries, drinking water, and many daily chores.
Thanks to the geographical advantage, India is blessed with many rivers. Across all regions, rivers are considered sacred, giver, and as a mother. The tradition of worshipping rivers is going on for ages. Historians found proof of worshipping the Sindhu river even in the Harappan age.
The tradition continues. Ganga Arti (worshiping the Ganges) in Haridwar and Varanasi is famous across the world. But little did we know that all major rivers in India like the Godavari, Mahanadi, Narmada, Yamuna, Kaveri are also being worshipped in different regions.
When in Jabalpur, we decided to pay a visit to Gwarighat which hosts the biggest Narmada Arti in the country every evening. The ghat houses many temples including Narmada Ji ka temple. Devotees come here to offer their gratitude and prayers to Narmada Maiya (Maiya means the mother is how she is referred to in this part of the country) by floating a basket with flowers and diyas. If you are like me, you can come here to enjoy the lively environment and the breathtaking sight of the Arti or take a leisurely boat ride.
Both the best and worst part of the evening for me came after the Arti. To my utter surprise, the priests added a section where they ask all devotees to take a pledge to keep the Narmada clean and not throw anything which pollutes her. The thoughtful addition must be made an example to others. But the sad part is right after taking the pledge all devotees rushed towards the river to throw flowers in the river. We need a more sustainable solution to keep her alive.
Let me know your thoughts too.