Latest Ganga News | Top Ganga News Headlines Today | Today India news | Breaking Ganga News Today | English Ganga News Headlines - TheDailyGuardian

Devotees Take Holy Dip in Ganga at Har Ki Pauri on Basant Panchami: WATCH VIDEO

February 2, 2025, 11:29 am

Thousands throng to Har Ki Pauri, Haridwar, on February 2, 2025, for Sacred Basant Panchami Rituals to bathe in Ganga and perform puja to Saraswati. Spiritual fervor runs high as devotees from various parts of India join the revered rituals, seeking blessings for wisdom, prosperity, and well-being.

Massive Influx of Devotees

The holy city of Haridwar saw an inflow of people since early in the morning hours. Devotees stand in long queues in the ghats, praying and bathing in the Ganges with the hope of getting rid of sin and achieving god’s blessings. They also distributed alms to feed the poor.

Significance of Basant Panchami and Holy Dip:

Basant Panchami is also known as Shri Panchami or Saraswati Panchami. This festival celebrates the birth of Goddess Saraswati deity of wisdom and knowledge and fine arts.

Taking a dip in the sacred Ganga on this day is considered highly auspicious. This occasion also marks the arrival of spring and signals the beginning of Holi preparations. It is celebrated forty days later.

VIDEO | Devotees gather in large numbers to witness early morning Ganga Aarti on the occasion of Basant Panchami. Visuals from Haridwar’s Har Ki Pauri Ghat.

(Full video available on PTI Videos – https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/pisa1qIEIF

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 2, 2025

At the sacred Har Ki Pauri, devotees could be spotted praying.

Found partaking in the stunning Ganga Aarti against the spiritual backdrops of a lit earthen lamp glowing and chanting in the air.

Many pilgrims said they had great joy and spirituality throughout the celebrations.

Pallavi, a devotee, said, “The darshan was wonderful, and the Ganga Aarti was a divine experience. The arrangements and security were well-managed. I will definitely bring my family here again.”

Sunil Bhat, a Kashmiri Pandit, added, “I felt a deep connection here. The enthusiasm of devotees and the serene Ganga Aarti made this a special visit.

Meenakshi said, “The Ganga bath was great. Watching the Aarti gave me so much peace. I do feel rejuvenated and spiritually renewed.”

Preparations in Full Gear for Mahakumbh in Prayagraj

While the preparations are going full throttle for Basant Panchami’s third Shahi Snan on February 3.

The authorities in Prayagraj are already in full gear here.

Many devotees would throng the Sangam sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati-to seek blessings and perform various rituals.

Hinduism has always treated Basant Panchami richly in culture and literature to symbolize a new journey of knowledge and a divine boon.

Woman Skydives From 13,000 Feet To Unfurl Maha Kumbh Flag | WATCH

January 15, 2025, 10:33 am

The Maha Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, is currently underway in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, drawing millions of pilgrims to the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. As over 35 crore devotees are expected to take part in the event, a viral video featuring a daring act by a woman from Uttar Pradesh has taken the internet by storm.

Anamika’s Skydiving Feat with Maha Kumbh Flag

The video, shared on Instagram, showcases Anamika, a woman from Prayagraj, holding the Maha Kumbh flag before boarding an aircraft in Bangkok, Thailand. Moments later, she jumps out of the plane, unfolding the flag mid-air, symbolizing a unique tribute to the Kumbh Mela. The accompanying caption reads, “Inviting people all over the globe for the world’s largest human gathering—Maha Kumbh 2025.”

The video quickly went viral, amassing more than eight million views on Instagram. Social media users have praised her for her bravery, with one comment reading, “Congratulations for such a brave act,” while another called it a “Proud feat.” Many others have expressed their admiration, with one remarking that it was an “Emotional moment.”

WATCH THE VIRAL VIDEO:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Anamika || Adventure & Travel | Skydiver || Lifestyle (@anamika.skydives)

The Kumbh Mela: A Sacred Gathering

The Maha Kumbh, which is held once every twelve years at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, is a celebration of the meeting of three sacred rivers: the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati. The event attracts millions of devotees who come to take part in sacred baths, including the royal Amrit Snan, to purify their souls and atone for their sins.

On Makar Sankranti, around 3.5 crore devotees participated in the Amrit Snan, marking one of the key rituals of the event. The Maha Kumbh Mela is known for its six auspicious baths, which are a central part of the religious experience.

The Spiritual Significance of the Kumbh Mela

The Kumbh Mela is celebrated in four cities: Haridwar, Prayagraj, Ujjain, and Nashik, with Prayagraj being the permanent host for the Maha Kumbh. Pilgrims come from across the globe to take part in the religious festivities, believed to cleanse one of sins and offer a chance for spiritual awakening.

As the Maha Kumbh continues to unfold, the event stands as a testament to India’s spiritual and cultural heritage, drawing attention from around the world with such awe-inspiring moments as Anamika’s skydiving stunt.

UP Officer Swept Away in Ganga; Divers Demanded Rs 10,000 To Rescue Him

September 2, 2024, 3:12 pm

The search for Uttar Pradesh health department deputy director Aditya Vardhan Singh, who was swept away by strong currents in the Ganga, continued into its second day on Sunday. Singh, 45, was at Nanamau Ghat in Bilhaur, Unnao, on Saturday afternoon when the incident occurred. According to police, Singh moved into deeper waters to be photographed by his friends while offering ‘arghya’ to the sun god. Despite knowing how to swim, he was caught in a strong current.

Allegations of Negligence and Extortion

Singh’s friends claimed that when they sought help from private divers at the ghat, they were asked to pay Rs 10,000. Unable to pay immediately, they transferred the money online, but by then, Singh had already been swept away. Bilhaur ACP Ajay Kumar Trivedi reported that search efforts, which include the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), flood unit, police, and private divers, have yet to yield results.

Investigation into Divers’ Conduct

DCP (West) Rajesh Kumar Singh noted that the divers had claimed they requested money only for fuel. “If there is any truth to the allegations of extortion, we will take legal action against the divers,” Singh stated. The search for Singh is ongoing, with authorities hopeful for a resolution soon.

Kanwar Yatra: Delhi-Meerut Expressway, NH 58 To Face 14-Day Traffic Restrictions | Dates and Details

July 6, 2024, 2:46 pm

In anticipation of the upcoming Kanwar Yatra, traffic authorities have announced significant changes affecting National Highway 58 (NH 58) linking Delhi to Haridwar, as well as the Delhi-Meerut Expressway.

The yatra, expected to attract a large number of devotees, will lead to phased suspensions of vehicular traffic from July 22 to August 4.

Dhruv Kant Thakur, Additional Director General of Police for the Meerut zone, chaired a meeting with officials from 14 districts across western Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Haryana, and Delhi to finalize the traffic management strategy. Starting July 22, heavy vehicles will be restricted from using NH 58 and the Delhi-Meerut Expressway. From July 25, only light and medium vehicles will be allowed on the left side of NH 58 for travel from Delhi to Haridwar.

With the influx of kanwariyas expected to peak in late July ahead of Shivratri on August 2, stricter measures will be implemented. Therefore, from July 29 to August 4, all vehicle types will face a complete ban on NH 58 and the Delhi-Meerut Expressway between Haridwar and Meerut.

Local police have been tasked with developing alternative routes and diversion plans to ensure smooth traffic flow during this period. A dedicated WhatsApp group covering the 14 districts will facilitate real-time coordination among officials to manage the increased number of devotees effectively.

Security measures are also being heightened to ensure the safety of kanwariyas throughout their journey. A high-level meeting held on July 6 in Meerut, attended by the Chief Secretary, DGP, and other officials, will further assess and strengthen preparations for the yatra.

The Kanwar Yatra traditionally attracts thousands of devotees who undertake the pilgrimage on foot, carrying holy water from the Ganges to offer at Lord Shiva temples on Shivratri.

Ganga River Records Historic Low Water Levels In Varanasi

June 16, 2024, 12:34 pm

The Ganga River in Varanasi is experiencing historically low water levels, attributed to the intense heat. Normally spanning 70 to 80 meters wide in June, the river has shrunk to just 30 to 35 meters, causing it to recede from the ghats. This unprecedented decline has exposed debris such as broken boats, scattered garbage, and shattered boulders along its banks.

The reduced water levels are a direct result of the scorching heat and harsh sunlight. The buildup of garbage underscores the importance of maintaining a steady flow in the river, which is crucial for its health. Despite its revered status, the recent heatwave has revealed the vulnerability of the Ganga’s water supply.

The persistent heatwave over the past month and a half has exacerbated the situation, leading to significant drying of the Ganga. This lack of water has made the accumulated dirt and debris more visible along the riverbanks.

Magh Purnima: Devotees Take Holy Dip in UP

February 24, 2024, 11:10 am

On Saturday morning, devotees took a holy dip at Sangam in Uttar Pradesh on the occasion of Magh Purnima, the full moon night of the Magha month in the Hindu calendar.
Devotees also prayed at the Sangam, a confluence of three rivers: the Ganga, the Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati.

Kalpavas, which lasts one month starting with Paush Purnima, also ends today.
Kalpavas is a spiritual ritual in which the Kalpavasi sleeps on the ground on the sand of Sangam for a month, eats just once a day, practices austerity, and chants the name of the Almighty.

Speaking on ANI at Sangam in Uttar Pradesh, Prabhadevi, a devotee from Mirzapur district said, “I came here for a month-long Kalpvas, and today, on the day of Purnima, my spiritual journey is complete. I’ve been here since January 24th. Yesterday, I also performed Sija Daan, and tomorrow I will return home. I sought forgiveness from Mother Ganga for all my mistakes.”

Another devotee, Dinesh Mishra, complimented Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on the superb arrangements.

“Being here on the auspicious day of Magh Purnima at Sangam is incredibly fortunate. Yogi Ji has arranged everything so well that there are no issues, and we are enjoying excellent facilities. It feels like we are in heaven,” Dinesh Mishra said.

Earlier, thousands of devotees took a holy dip at Sangam on the occasion of Basant Panchami, the fourth bathing festival of Uttar Pradesh’s ongoing ‘Magh Mela’.
Basant Panchami, also known as Vasant Panchami, Shri Panchami, and Saraswati Panchami, is a Hindu festival observed on the first day of spring, which is the fifth day of the month of Magha. It also marks the beginning of Holi preparations, which occur forty days after the feast. Maa Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of learning, music, and the arts, is celebrated during the festival.

According to legend, Kalidasa, upset about his wife’s abandonment, intended to commit suicide by drowning in a river. He was ready to do so when the goddess Saraswati appeared in the water and requested Kalidasa to take a bath there. His life changed after that when he gained insight and rose to prominence as a poet.

Another legend is based on the Hindu god of love, Kama, and according to folklore, Kamadeva once interrupted Lord Shiva’s meditation following the loss of his wife Sati. Seers contacted Kama to awaken Shiva from his concentration so that he might reconnect with the world and recognize Maa Parvati’s efforts on his behalf.

Centre approves for new bridge over river Ganga in Bihar

December 27, 2023, 5:16 pm

The construction of a new, 4.56-kilometer, six-lane bridge over the Ganga that connects Digha and Sonepur in Bihar received approval on Wednesday from the Union Cabinet, which is presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. When the bridge is finished, Bihar’s north and south will be connected. The country’s inland water transportation will be supported by the ability of large ships to pass beneath the bridge. Anurag Thakur, the union minister of information and broadcasting, told reporters that the approved project would cost a total of Rs 3,064.45 crore and be finished in 42 months. The 135-kilometer Khowai-Harina road expansion and rehabilitation in Tripura was also approved by the Union Cabinet today.

The project involves investment of Rs 2,486.78 crore which includes a loan component of Rs 1,511.70 crore. The widening of this crucial road will reduce travel time and logistics cost between Tripura and Assam.
Also, the Union Cabinet today approved raising the Support Price for copra for 2023-24 marketing season.
The MSP for milling copra has been increased by Rs.300 to Rs 11,160 per quintal. The MSP for ball copra has been increased by Rs 250 to Rs 12,000 per quintal.
Briefing reporters after a meeting of union cabinet, Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur said the decision will ensure better remunerative returns to the Indian coconut growers.

Devotees take holy dip in river Ganga on the occasion of ‘Ekadashi’

November 23, 2023, 11:39 am

On the occasion of Ekadashi and Tulsi Vivah, devotees flocked to Dashashwamedh Ghat in Varanasi in large numbers to dip in the holy Ganga river. On this occasion, devotees along the Ganga Ghat offered prayers and carried out rituals. “Today, the Tulsi Vivah is celebrated with grandeur; women observe fasts, partake in Ganga snan, and offer prayers,” a follower stated.

On the auspicious occasion, the Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister extended wishes to fellow Indians and offered prayers at Shri Vitthal-Rukimini temple in Padharpur.
“May Lord Vitthal Rukmini’s blessings fill our lives with love, harmony, and peace! Wishing you all a happy Kartiki Ekadashi!,” Devendra Fadnavis said in a post on X.

Devotees take dip at confluence of Ganga, Yamuna on auspicious occasion of Dhanteras

November 10, 2023, 11:36 am

On the auspicious occasion of Dhanteras, thousands of people prayed for good health and fortune while taking a dip at the confluence of the holy Ganga and Yamuna. Most of the nation observes Dhanvantari Jayantim on Friday, which is the first day of Diwali. It is thought that human suffering can be cured by the grace of Lord Dhanvantari.

The goddess of wealth, Lakshmi, and the god of wealth, Kuber, are also worshipped on this day. Siddhi Vinayak, another name for Lord Ganesha, is also worshipped. It’s considered a lucky day to buy new things. On this day, there are big sales for gold and silver jewelry, kitchenware, utensils, cars, clothes, electronics, and more.

Kanpur stages a half marathon to raise awareness of cleaning up Ganga

November 6, 2022, 11:36 am

A half marathon was organised by the civic society on Sunday along with the Kanpur District Administration.

This 10-kilometer race served to connect and educate the general public about the need to keep Ganga and Kanpur clean. A significant number of individuals showed up.

“This event has been organised to promote a healthy Kanpur on behalf of Kanpur smart city and Kanpur District Administration. This is a 10 kilometres marathon and thousands of people have participated in it so that a healthy lifestyle can be adopted”, Dr Rajasekhar (Kanpur Commissioner Commissioner) said.

“On the theme of Run for Ganga, this half marathon has been organised in which CEI Kanpur unit and civil society and others have come together to be a part of this event,” Shiv Sharanappa (Municipal Commissioner) said.
He further said, “We expected 3,000 people to be there, but surprisingly, around 5,000 people have turned up.”

The half marathon was held from Sarasaiah Ghat in Kanpur to the Company Bagh crossroads.