HARDWAR (HARI-DWARA) I am eager to die and also die at Hari-dwara, so that the Lord may ask who is lying here at my door-step ? (Shalok Kabir, p. 1367) Hardwar (Hari-dwara) is a pilgrim station at the place where Ganga (the Ganges) finally breaks through the mountains into the plains of India. In the above reference Kabir does not talk about his place of pilgrimage, but instead he is eager to die at the gate of the abode of the Lord. Hari-dwara means the gate of the abode of the Lord.
References :
1. Kohli, Surindar Singh (ed), Dictionary of Mythological References in Guru Granth Sahib, 1993
Haridwar, also known as Haridwara, is one of the seven holiest cities (Sapta Puri) in Hinduism and holds immense significance in Hindu mythology. Located in the state of Uttarakhand, India, it is considered the gateway to the divine, where the sacred Ganga River descends from the Himalayas into the plains. The city is steeped in legends, spiritual practices, and historical importance.
Mythological Significance of Haridwar
- Samudra Manthan (Churning of the Ocean): Haridwar is one of the four places where drops of amrita (nectar of immortality) spilled during the Samudra Manthan, a cosmic event where gods (Devas) and demons (Asuras) churned the ocean to obtain the nectar. This event sanctified Haridwar, making it a site of immense spiritual power. The Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years, commemorates this event and attracts millions of devotees.
- Har Ki Pauri: The most famous ghat in Haridwar, Har Ki Pauri, is believed to have been visited by Lord Vishnu. The ghat is named after the imprint of Vishnu’s footprint (Vishnu Charan Paduka) on a stone wall. Bathing in the Ganga at Har Ki Pauri is believed to cleanse sins and grant liberation (moksha).
- Bhagiratha’s Penance: According to legend, King Bhagiratha performed intense penance at Haridwar to bring the Ganga from the heavens to Earth to purify the ashes of his ancestors. His devotion pleased Lord Shiva, who controlled the mighty flow of the river by letting it descend through his matted hair.
- Sapta Rishi Ashram: Near Haridwar lies the Sapta Rishi Ashram, where seven great sages (Saptarishis) are said to have meditated. To avoid disturbing their penance, the Ganga is believed to have split into seven streams (Saptasarovar), making this a tranquil and sacred spot. Spiritual Practices and Rituals
Haridwar is a hub of spiritual activity, with daily Ganga Aarti ceremonies at Har Ki Pauri, where devotees offer prayers to the river with oil lamps and hymns. The city is also a starting point for the Char Dham Yatra, a pilgrimage to the sacred shrines of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri.
Symbolism of Haridwar
Haridwar symbolizes the eternal connection between the earthly and the divine. It serves as a reminder of the importance of devotion, humility, and the pursuit of spiritual liberation. The city continues to inspire millions of pilgrims and seekers on their spiritual journeys.
