Know The Significance Of Indus River In Indian Culture And Religion

One of India’s major rivers, the Indus holds deep significance in Hinduism. Here’s how our religion and culture are closely connected to the Indus River and why it is so important.

Know The Significance Of Indus River In Indian Culture And Religion

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The Indus River holds immense importance in India — not just as a vital source of water, but also as a river of great spiritual and cultural significance in Hinduism. The very term 'Hindu' is believed to have originated from 'Sindhu', representing the people who lived beyond this river. Revered as the 'Queen of Rivers', the Indus is counted among the most sacred rivers in India.

One of the major rivers of Asia, the Indus originates near Lake Mansarovar in Tibet and flows through Pakistan before merging into the Arabian Sea.

Religious Significance:

The Indus River is mentioned numerous times in ancient Hindu scriptures, especially the Vedas. It is believed that many sages and saints meditated on its banks, and several ancient texts, including parts of the Vedas and Puranas, were composed near the river. Owing to this deep-rooted spiritual association, the river is highly venerated in Hinduism. The Rigveda makes several references to the river, including the hymn: "Imam me Gange Yamune Saraswati... Sindhu Stomam Arjunyam", emphasizing its sacred status. The Indus is often referred to as the 'River of Knowledge'.

A grand celebration known as the Sindhu Darshan Festival is held every year on the banks of the river during the full moon (Purnima) in the month of June. Organised in Leh, Ladakh, the festival showcases the deep reverence people hold for the river. It is celebrated on the occasion of Guru Purnima and witnesses participation from thousands of devotees from across the country.

At the delta where the river meets the sea, near Karachi in Pakistan, lies the sacred Hinglaj Mata Temple, one of the 52 Shakti Peethas. The Hingol River, a tributary of the Indus, flows through Balochistan in Pakistan and passes near this revered temple site, adding further religious significance to the river’s course.

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