History of Haridwar

The history of Haridwar, an age-old city of India, is a topic that generates a lot of interest in the minds of researchers and scholars. The city is also recognized by the names Mayapuri, Gangadwar and Kapila and truly lives up to its name Gateway of the Gods.

The holy pilgrimage site that is located on the banks of the Ganges River also happens to be the gateway to the famed Dev Bhoomi and the Char Dham, the celebrated pilgrimage quartet of ancient India that comprises of Gangotri, Yamunotri, Bardrinath and Kedarnath.

Archaeological excavations have unearthed some terracotta pieces whose origin can be traced as far back as 1700 B.C. or 1200 B.C. There are several conjectures and surmises regarding the origin of the Ganges. According to legend, the mythological emperor Bhagirath fetched the sacred waters from heaven in order to seek penance on behalf of his ancestors and absolve them from their sins.

The mythology of Haridwar cites that the holy city is consecrated by the benedictions of the Lord Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwara. The revered Har-Ki-Pauri is sanctified by Lord Vishnu's footsteps on the stone slab that rests in the upper wall. A dip in the holy waters of the Ganges has been considered as a means of redemption from all transgressions for any pious Hindu.

One of the four revered venues of the Kumbh Mela and the Ardh Kumbh Mela, there are several enchanting mythological sagas about Haridwar. The ancient Indian scriptures also testify the history of this holy land.



Last Updated on 17th Oct 2012