In Hinduism, the tradition of worshipping not just gods but also rivers, animals, birds, and plants is prevalent. Rivers hold a special place in Hindu culture, revered as mothers and believed to grant immense spiritual merit. Bathing in holy rivers like the Ganga is considered highly auspicious. Similarly, the Narmada River, also known as Rewa or Kunwari, is of great significance. Narmada is believed to grant moksha (liberation) like the Ganga. Each stone in the river is considered a manifestation of Lord Shiva, known as Narmadeshwar. Devotees believe that circumambulating the Narmada River absolves one of sins and grants moksha after death. The grandeur of Narmada is celebrated in the four Vedas, and it's often referred to as the "Kanya Nadi" (Virgin River).
Narmada's Journey through Madhya Pradesh
The Narmada River, considered the daughter of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, is said to have originated from their sweat. Bathing in the river on Narmada Jayanti is believed to bring immense spiritual merit, akin to bathing in the Ganga.
Unique Characteristics of the Narmada River
The Narmada River is often called the "Lifeline of Madhya Pradesh" as it flows through central India. It is the fifth-longest river in the Indian subcontinent and the third-longest river flowing entirely in peninsular India after the Godavari and Krishna rivers. Originating from the Amarkantak plateau of the Maikal Range, the Narmada flows westwards and meets the Gulf of Khambhat. It traverses Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat, and is still worshipped in Madhya Pradesh today. The river is also revered as a mother in India.
How Narmada Became a Kanya (Virgin)
According to legends, Narmada was the daughter of King Mahala. She was a beautiful and virtuous young woman, obedient to her parents. When Narmada reached marriageable age, King Mahala announced that the prince who brought the Gulbakawali flower would marry her. Many princes attempted but failed, until Prince Sonbhadra succeeded. Narmada and Sonbhadra's marriage was then arranged.
Vow of Virginity
Narmada had a friend named Juhila, a maidservant whom she treated as a confidante, sharing her thoughts and feelings. After her marriage was arranged, Narmada sent Juhila to deliver a message to Prince Sonbhadra, expressing her desire to see him. However, as time passed and Juhila did not return, Narmada grew anxious and went to find her. To her shock, she saw Juhila with Sonbhadra. Overcome with anger and betrayal, Narmada vowed to remain a virgin for life and flowed away in the opposite direction.
