Mumbai: In Sanatan Dharma, the Ganges is revered not just as a river but as Maa Ganga—a sacred mother figure believed to grant salvation (moksha). Considered the holiest river in India, it is said that taking a dip in its waters cleanses one of all sins. Devotees worship her with the same rituals and devotion reserved for other deities. According to Hindu belief, Lord Shiva brought Ganga down to Earth by holding her in his matted locks (jata). But few know the story of why this divine river is believed to have become impure—after being cursed by none other than Goddess Parvati.
The legend traces back to the Himalayas, where both Parvati and Ganga are said to have originated—making them spiritual sisters. One day, a dispute arose between the two, ultimately leading to a powerful curse from Parvati. As the myth goes, while Lord Shiva was meditating on Mount Kailash, Ganga appeared before him and confessed her love, asking to be accepted as his consort. This did not sit well with Parvati, who saw it as a betrayal.
The Curse of Goddess Parvati
When Shiva opened his eyes after deep meditation, he found Ganga standing before him with folded hands. Curious, he asked her why she was there. Ganga responded that she had fallen in love with him and wished to be his wife. Upon hearing this, Parvati became enraged. Her eyes flared like fire as she confronted Ganga, reminding her of their sisterly bond and accusing her of crossing a sacred line.
Ganga, however, defended herself, saying, “Even if you are his consort, I reside on his head.” This only infuriated Parvati further. In her anger, she cursed Ganga, saying that from now on, corpses would flow through her waters, and in washing away human sins, she herself would become impure and darkened.
Ganga’s Plea and Redemption
Shaken and terrified by the curse, Ganga trembled and begged Parvati for forgiveness. She pleaded with folded hands, asking the goddess to revoke her words. At this moment, Lord Shiva intervened. He granted her a form of redemption, saying that while the curse would remain, her waters would continue to purify all who bathe in them. Washing away their sins would be her way of atonement.
Thus, the story of Ganga’s “impurity” is not one of disgrace, but of divine sacrifice—her flowing waters continuing to cleanse the world, even as she bears the burden of its sins.
More than a river, Ganga is a divine mother in Hinduism. But why did Goddess Parvati curse her? This untold tale reveals a powerful clash of devotion, love, and sacrifice that gave rise to the legend of Ganga’s impurity—and her eternal role as a purifier. Spirituality Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
