Why we must ‘worship’ our rivers, our lifelines

River Yamuna.

In school, we were taught about the great Indus Valley and Egyptian civilisations. We were taken back in time to virtually witness the glories of those eras. And history lessons also taught us about the multiple contributions of rivers that were instrumental in making these civilisations a reality.

Egypt flourished on the banks of the river Nile while the civilisation back home was nurtured by the river Indus also referred to as the Sindhu.

In India, tradition encourages the ritual of worshipping rivers. Each river holds a spiritual significance—be it the mighty Ganga or the Yamuna, Narmada or Godavari, Brahmaputra or Mahanadi, Cauvery or Krishna.

Of all the rivers, Ganga is considered supreme. And right from where she originates (Gangotri) to where she merges with the ocean (Ganga Sagar), she is worshipped by all those who thrive on either side of her banks.

Faith and religion have played a pivotal role in elevating the role of a river from being a mere source of water to that of the mother. Rivers in India are given the status of Maa (mother), for she nurtures, cradles and sustains life.

However, for a variety of reasons, we have failed to prove our loyalty and love to the rivers that feed us, quench our thirst and help us grow.

We have done more harm than good over a period of time not to her alone but to our future generations too.

They say, it’s never too late, so it’s high time we start worshipping rivers not just literally but otherwise too! Besides the evening Aartis, one must also ensure that the rivers aren’t polluted any further.

And in case we fail, we should be ready to face her wrath – if not today, certainly tomorrow.