Uttarakhand, nestled in the Himalayas, is a land where mythology intertwines with the breathtaking landscape. Referred to as "Devbhumi" or "Land of the Gods," it holds immense significance in Hindu scriptures and is believed to be the abode of numerous deities. Let's delve into the rich mythological tapestry of this sacred land.
Uttarakhand in Vedic Literature
The earliest references to Uttarakhand can be found in the ancient Vedic texts. The Rig Veda mentions the region as the source of the sacred river Ganges, originating from the Gangotri glacier. The region is also associated with the legendary sages and seers who performed intense penance and meditation in the serene Himalayan mountains. The Vedas depict Uttarakhand as a land of spiritual purity and enlightenment, where humans could connect with the divine.
Mention in Mahabharata and Ramayana
Uttarakhand finds prominent mention in the two great epics of Hinduism, the Mahabharata and the Ramayana.
Mahabharata: The Pandavas, the heroes of the Mahabharata, are believed to have traversed through Uttarakhand during their exile and their final journey to heaven. Several places in Uttarakhand are associated with their journey, including the Panch Kedar temples (Kedarnath, Tungnath, Rudranath, Madhyamaheshwar, and Kalpeshwar), which are believed to have been established by the Pandavas themselves. The epic also narrates the tale of King Bhagiratha's penance to bring the Ganges down to earth, which ultimately led to the formation of the river's source in Uttarakhand.
Ramayana: While the Ramayana is primarily set in other parts of India, Uttarakhand is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama's sons, Luv and Kush. The region is also associated with the sage Agastya, who is believed to have resided in the Himalayas.
Sacred Rivers and Their Significance
Uttarakhand is blessed with several sacred rivers, each holding immense religious and cultural significance.
Ganges (Ganga): Considered the most sacred river in Hinduism, the Ganges originates from the Gangotri glacier in Uttarakhand. It is believed to purify the soul and absolve one's sins. Haridwar, one of the seven holiest places in Hinduism, is situated on the banks of the Ganges in Uttarakhand.
Yamuna: The Yamuna, another sacred river, also originates in Uttarakhand, from the Yamunotri glacier. It is considered the sister of Yama, the god of death, and is believed to guide souls to the afterlife.
Saraswati: Though the Saraswati river is believed to have dried up centuries ago, its mythical presence is still felt in Uttarakhand. The Triveni Sangam in Allahabad, where the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati are said to converge, is considered a highly sacred site.
These rivers, along with numerous other tributaries and streams, nourish the land and sustain life in Uttarakhand. They are not merely water bodies but are revered as goddesses, embodying the divine power and purity of the Himalayas.
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