Haridwar in Ancient Hindu Scriptures and Legends
Haridwar in Ancient Hindu Scriptures and Legends
Mention of Haridwar in Ancient Hindu Scriptures and Legends
Haridwar in Ancient Hindu Scriptures and Legends : Haridwar, located in the foothills of Shivalik ranges in the Haridwar district of Uttarakhand, is one of the oldest living cities in India. This sacred city finds mention in several ancient Hindu scriptures and legends. It has remained an important Hindu pilgrimage site since antiquity, especially for ritual bathing on special occasions and during the Kumbha Mela.
The district came into existence on 28th December 1988, prior to which it was part of Saharanpur Divisional Commissionary. Haridwar literally means “Gateway to Gods” and has been known by several names like Mayapuri, Gangadwar, and Kapila in ancient Hindu texts. Let us explore some of the prominent mentions of Haridwar in ancient Hindu scriptures and legends.
Key Highlights of Haridwar in Ancient Hindu Scriptures and Legends
- Haridwar finds mention in several Puranas like Skanda Purana, Padma Purana, and Vishnu Purana
- The legend of King Bhagirath bringing River Ganga from heavens to earth is associated with Haridwar
- It is believed Lord Vishnu’s footprint is imprinted on a stone at Har-ki-Pauri ghat
- Haridwar’s sanctity comes from the presence of trinity Gods – Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva
- Kumbha Mela has been held in Haridwar after every 12 years rotation since ancient times
- Haridwar’s water resources and food grain abundance is mentioned
Haridwar in Skanda Purana
Skanda Purana, one of the major eighteen Puranas, contains several references to Haridwar. It mentions that Vishnu landed in Haridwar in his Vamana avatar when Bali was performing a Yagna. The Purana also mentions Dharkadheeshwar temple, where Shiva is said to have borne the heat from Kamadev’s body when the latter was reduced to ashes by the third eye.
The Legend of King Bhagirath
Perhaps the most popular legend that finds mention in several Puranas is that of King Bhagirath bringing River Ganga to earth. His ancestors had been burnt to ashes by Kapila Muni and could only attain salvation if Ganga’s water touched them. Hence, Bhagirath is believed to have brought Ganga from the heavens to earth in Haridwar, specifically to the Brahmakund at Har-ki-Pauri.
Lord Vishnu’s Footprint
It is believed as per Vishnu Purana that Lord Vishnu’s footprint is imprinted on a stone at Har-ki-Pauri ghat in Haridwar. Devout Hindus believe that the Ganga water touches this stone all the time, sanctifying Haridwar. Hence, a ritual bath here, especially on special occasions, can bring salvation.
Presence of Trinity Gods
The Padma Purana states that Haridwar has been sanctified due to the presence of the Hindu trinity Gods – Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh (Shiva). Each has left their influence in some form or the other that devotees can experience during their visit.
Venue for Kumbha Mela since Antiquity
Being located on the banks of River Ganga, Haridwar has been the chosen venue for the Kumbha Mela after every 12 years rotation since time immemorial. Various Puranas mention the sanctity of taking a holy dip in the river during the Mela. Millions of devotees still adhere to it with unflinching faith.
Food Abundance
Haridwar’s location in the fertile plains of the Ganges has meant abundance of water and food grains since ancient times. The Vayu Purana mentions the richness of Haridwar’s natural vegetation, especially the forests and fruit-bearing trees owing to the 3 seasons that the region experiences.
Conclusion to Haridwar in Ancient Hindu Scriptures and Legends
Haridwar in Ancient Hindu Scriptures and Legends : Haridwar’s special place among the most sacred pilgrimage sites for Hindus is evident from its mention in various ancient scriptures. Be it the Samudra Manthan legend, salvation-giving powers of Ganga, or the venue of Kumbha Mela – Haridwar’s deep mythology and history is inseparable from the essence of Hinduism. The district’s geography and resources have only added to the mix, creating a unique holy site. From antiquity to modern times, the ‘Gateway to Gods’ remains a key highlight of Hindu heritage.
