GODAVARI Going to Ganga, Gaya and Goda van are mere worldly rituals. (Basant Namdev, p. 1196) Ganga, Yamuna, Godavari and Sarasvati all long for the dust of the feet of the saint. (Malar M. 4, p. 1263) Godavari is a river, originating from the hills of! Nasik, Bombay. Though the Arabian Sea is at a distance of about 55 miles from its source, but it flows towards the Eastern coast and passing through Tamil Nadu, it merges in the Bay of Bengal. The town of Nander, where Guru Gobind Singh passed the last days of his life, is situated on its banks. According to the Sikh Scripture the rivers like Ganga and Godavari have achieved eminence because of the visits of great saints.
References :
1. Kohli, Surindar Singh (ed), Dictionary of Mythological References in Guru Granth Sahib, 1993
The Godavari River, often referred to as the “Dakshin Ganga” or “Ganges of the South,” holds profound significance in Hindu mythology. It is not only celebrated as a sacred river but also deeply intertwined with the spiritual and cultural heritage of India. Flowing from Trimbakeshwar in Maharashtra to the Bay of Bengal, the Godavari has been revered for its purifying and life-giving qualities.
Mythological Significance of the Godavari
- Sacred Origins: According to Hindu mythology, the Godavari River is believed to have emerged from Lord Shiva. The origin point, Trimbakeshwar, is home to one of the twelve Jyotirlingas (sacred shrines of Shiva). The river is said to flow from his matted hair, symbolizing purity and divine blessings.
- Association with Gautama Rishi: The legend of Gautama Rishi adds a significant dimension to the river’s mythology. It is said that Gautama Rishi, a sage known for his penance and devotion, lived near the river. When a divine cow was accidentally killed due to a misunderstanding, he prayed fervently for purification. Lord Shiva, pleased by his devotion, sent the Godavari River to cleanse the area, thereby sanctifying the land.
- Epic Connections: The Godavari features prominently in various Hindu texts, including the Ramayana. It is believed that Lord Rama, accompanied by Sita and Lakshmana, spent part of his exile in the Dandakaranya forest near the banks of the Godavari. Several episodes from the Ramayana, such as the abduction of Sita by Ravana, are associated with the Godavari region.
Bathing in the Godavari is believed to cleanse sins and pave the way for spiritual liberation (moksha). The river is also associated with ceremonies honoring ancestors, such as shraddha and pind daan, performed to ensure their peace in the afterlife. The Godavari River, with its mythological roots and spiritual essence, continues to inspire devotion and reverence among millions of people.
