Uttarakhand Properties: February 2012

Haridwar a Land of Gods

Haridwar is located on the right bank of river Ganga and from here the holy river spreads over the northern plains. According to a mythological legend, Prince Bhagirath performed penance here to salvage the souls of his ancestors who had perished due to Saint Kapila's curse. Bhagirath was blessed and the holy river descended on the earth and its water revived the sons of King Sagara. Following the tradition of Bhagirath, devout Hindus stand in the sacred waters here, and pray for the salvation of their ancestors.

Haridwar is also famous for the Kumbh and Ardh Kumbh fairs that are held once in every 12 and 6 years respectively. Millions of devotees assemble here during this auspicious occasion and take a dip in the holiest river of India. It is said that drops of amrit (nectar) obtained after the 'Sagar Manthan' fell at four places Haridwar, Allahabad, Ujjain and Nashik and the Kumbh fair is held at these four sacred sites.