Ganga, also known as the Ganges, is among the most important rivers in the northern Indian subcontinent. It flows through numerous densely populated states in India and acts as a source of agriculture, fishing, and transportation. Being an important religious and cultural centre, Ganga has always been a centre of attraction for locals and tourists. Additionally, Ganges is also an important topic for students as they might get the opportunity to write essays, and speeches, and draw posters. Here are 15 interesting facts about the Ganga River that you must know to increase your knowledge about this holy river.
1. On November 4, 2008, Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh declared the Ganga or Ganges the National River of India.
2. The holy Ganga River is about 2,525 kilometres long, making it one of the longest rivers in India.
3. It rises from the Gangotri Glacier located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand.
4. Ganga flows through the northern states of West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.
5. There are two distributaries of Ganga namely Bhagirathi and Hooghly.
6. It holds great religious significance for the people of India who consider it the personification of the goddess Ganga.
8. References to the holy river of Ganga are found in numerous Hindu scriptures and texts such as Vedas, Ramayana, and the Mahabharata.
9. Various important cities such as Varanasi, Allahabad, and Kolkata are situated on the banks of the Ganga river.
10. It also supports a diverse range of flora and fauna such as Ganges river dolphins, Ganges river sharks, and Ganges river turtles.
11. The famous Kumbh Mela of India is organized once in twelve years on the banks of the river Ganga,
12. Ganga is a holy river in India, typically associated with Lord Shiva. It is believed that the matted hair of the deity contains the river Ganga.
13. The Indian Government started the Namami Gange programme to revitalize the river, reduce pollution, and promote sustainable wastewater management.
14. The Ganges enters Bangladesh from West Bengal where the Brahmaputra joins it near the Goalundo Ghat.
15. The Ganges-Brahmaputra-Megha (GBM) River Basin is one of the largest river systems in the world.
Hope you had fun reading these Facts about Ganga River. If you want to read more interesting facts, then I would recommend reading this interesting blog 20 Amazing Facts About Life You Did Not Know!