The Ganges River holds deep spiritual significance in Hinduism, with over 500 million people dependent on its waters. However, rapid population growth and urbanization in India have led to tremendous pollution from sewage and waste entering the Ganges. While the Ganges is central to Hindu pilgrimage and rituals meant to wash away sins, the severe pollution is now threatening these spiritual traditions and the health of those who use the river water. Some Hindu leaders have called for action to restore the purity of the Ganges to preserve its sacred status.

1. Religion’s Influence on the Environment Hinduism & the Ganges River: Pilgrimage to Spirituality or Pollution

2. The Ganges is above all the river of India, which has held India's heart captive and drawn uncounted millions to her banks since the dawn of history. -Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister

3. A Place for Spiritual Purity India has 900 million citizens; 700 million are of Hindu belief

4. A New Problem India’s population has exploded in recent history, causing rapid industrialization and urbanization More than 100 cities, towns, and villages rest on the banks of the Ganges Few of these fast growing cities have sewage plants 10 million to 12 million gallons of raw sewage spill into the Ganges each day The World Health Organization claims the coliform bacteria count is some 3,000 times higher than it considers safe. WHO also says that dirty water is the leading cause for child fatality in India Irrigation uses much more of the river’s water due to higher increases for crops and more drinking water 500 million people are dependent on the Ganges for water

6. Hindu Belief Distinction between sacred and everyday Pure vs. Impure Ritual Ritual and Salvation Caste System

7. Pilgrimage Tirtha yatra: Journey to a holy place Rid of sin or accumulated karma Fulfill a vow Enjoyment Caste restrictions supposedly fall away

8. Varanasi Steps leading into the Ganges Pilgrims bathe and bodies cremated Attain liberation upon death Center of the Cosmos The great cremation ground

9. Ganga action plan Purity vs. Impurity Pollution Hinduism embodies a concern for nature

10. Hindu Figures Sadhus: holy men Boycotted pilgrimage festival Purna Kumbh Mela 70,000 to wash away sins