The Sacred Ganga: Why Are Hindus Failing to Preserve Their Holy River?

For decades, the Ganga River has been a symbol of India's rich cultural heritage and spiritual significance. However, amidst its historical reverence, the river has become one of the world's most polluted water bodies. This article delves into the reasons behind the reluctance of Hindu communities to take effective action in cleaning the Ganga, examining cultural, societal, and environmental factors.

Historical Transformation of the Ganga

As recently as 60 years ago, the Ganga at Kanpur was crystal clear, fit for drinking, and even visible for fishing, according to personal accounts from the 1950s. In the early 1980s, during a visit to Kashi, it was advised not to touch the water due to hygiene concerns, highlighting the shift from purity to contamination. This transformation underscores the severity of pollution, which has been further exacerbated by the population boom and modernization.

Cultural and Religious Factors

The crux of the issue lies in the deep-seated belief that the Ganga is a sacred river, untouchable and inviolable, fostering an apathetic attitude towards its pollution. Traditionally, Hindus view the Ganga as a divine entity, endowing it with a sacred status that absolves individuals from their environmental responsibilities. This mindset, often supported by temple revenue and religious structures, has hindered the adoption of concerted cleaning efforts.

Temple Revenue and Inaction

It is estimated that in 2002, the Karnataka government generated Rs 72 crore from 2.5 lakh temples, of which only a fraction was utilized for cleaning and maintaining the Ganga. Instead, the money is often allocated towards religious institutions such as madrasas and churches. This allocation discrepancy reflects the prioritization of some religious groups over the environment and public health, further contributing to the river's pollution.

Shirking Responsibility

There is a prevalent sentiment among Hindus that 'if it's the Ganga, let it be,' often due to the belief that its cleansing is a divine prerogative. This mentality, coupled with a lack of individual accountability, results in significant environmental degradation. Despite numerous appeals and government initiatives, the failure of individuals to address the pollution has allowed it to persist.

Government and Community Roles

While the government plays a crucial role in policy development and implementation, the initiative to clean the Ganga ultimately depends on community action. The Ganga Action Plan, launched in the 1980s, was a step in the right direction, but its effectiveness is marred by underfunding, poor execution, and the prevailing apathy. Community participation through cleanliness drives, awareness campaigns, and collective efforts can play a pivotal role in restoring the river's sanctity.

Conclusion

The pollution of the Ganga is not just an environmental issue; it represents a failure of cultural values and societal responsibility. Addressing this crisis requires a holistic approach, combining government action, community participation, and a shift in religious and cultural practices. Only then can we hope to restore the Ganga to its pristine glory, ensuring that future generations can continue to benefit from its spiritual and ecological bounty.

Keywords: Ganges River, Hindu Pollution, Cleanliness Culture