Thursday, March 5, 2009

The picture below shows Hindus bathing in the Ganges river for religious purposes. Hindus believe that life is incomplete without bathing in the Ganges, for it's not just a river, but a mother, goddess, tradition, culture and so much more. Some families keep water from the Ganges river in their house because it's prestigious to do so, and for the belief that if someone is dying, then they'll be able to drink the water. Apparently drinking the water can cleanse a person's soul, ridding them of all sins, and cure the ill. Right now the water is actually polluted, so I don't plan on taking a dip in it anytime soon!

The buzz around me is amazing. People taking their first dips, and some who look like they've spent their whole life bathing in the Ganges river. Some people overwhelmed by the excitement splash each other, but in an orderly fashion so that they aren't disturbing anyone. Others are calmly bobbing about, drifting away or in little wooden boats, enjoying what the Goddess Ganga has given us. Some have turned all wrinkly, like pickles, on their fingers and toes. But that doesn't matter, they're doing the exact same thing myself and every other bather is doing. Cleansing my soul, ridding me off all sins. Some tourists walk by, taking pictures, amazed at the peace and tranquility that's being shared, but unlike me seem to turn their nose up at this custom, whereas I'm honored to be able to experience this wonderful Hindu tradition. Okay, maybe the water is a little boggy and this is probably some of the lower class people's annual wash, but it's true, bathing in the Ganges is simply something you can't live life without doing!