Category: Haridwar

History Of Roorkee

With its strategic location and rich history, Roorkee has evolved into a significant center for both academia and industry. The town hosts several prestigious educational institutions, including the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee, formerly known as the University of Roorkee, which is renowned for its engineering and technological programs.
Moreover, Roorkee’s industrial landscape is thriving, contributing to its status as an economic powerhouse in the region. Various industries, ranging from manufacturing to research and development, have established their presence here, driving employment opportunities and economic growth.

Activities In Roorkee

Roorkee, located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, offers a variety of activities for residents and visitors alike. Here are some popular options:

Visit IIT Roorkee: The Indian Institute of Technology in Roorkee is one of the oldest and most prestigious engineering institutes in India. Visitors can explore the campus, attend seminars, or participate in cultural events.

Explore Roorkee Cantonment: Roorkee Cantonment is an important military area with historical significance. Visitors can explore the cantonment area and learn about its history.

Sightseeing: Roorkee has several landmarks and tourist attractions, including the Solani Aqueduct, which is one of the longest aqueducts in India, and the Roorkee Group Museum and Archives, which houses a collection of historical artifacts and documents.

Adventure Activities: Uttarakhand is known for its adventure sports, and Roorkee is no exception. You can indulge in activities like trekking, camping, river rafting, and paragliding in nearby areas like Haridwar and Rishikesh.

Spiritual Tourism: Roorkee is located close to several religious sites, including Haridwar, Rishikesh, and the Chandi Devi Temple. Visitors can embark on spiritual journeys and attend religious ceremonies and festivals.

Har Ki Pauri In Haridwar

Har Ki Pauri is not only a religious site but also a cultural and historical landmark, drawing visitors from across the country and around the world. The ambiance, the rituals, and the spiritual significance make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a deeper connection with Hindu traditions and the sacred Ganges River.

Key features and significance of Har Ki Pauri:

Ganga Aarti: The ghat is renowned for its daily Ganga Aarti, a spiritual ceremony that takes place in the evening. Devotees gather to witness the priests offering prayers to the Ganges River, accompanied by the chanting of hymns and the lighting of oil lamps. The sight of the illuminated lamps floating on the river is a mesmerizing and spiritually uplifting experience.

Brahmakund: Har Ki Pauri is believed to be the spot where Lord Brahma performed a yagna (a Vedic ritual) in ancient times. The Brahmakund, a large rectangular tank at the ghat, is considered to be the place where the drops of nectar fell during the churning of the ocean, according to Hindu mythology.

Ghat Construction: The ghat was constructed by King Vikramaditya in memory of his brother Bhatrihari, who is said to have meditated at this spot. The footprints of Lord Vishnu are believed to be imprinted on a stone wall near the ghat.

Spiritual Bath: Devotees believe that taking a dip in the Ganges at Har Ki Pauri during specific auspicious occasions cleanses them of their sins and helps attain Moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death).

Kumbh Mela: Har Ki Pauri is a major pilgrimage site during the Kumbh Mela, a grand religious festival that occurs every 12 years and attracts millions of pilgrims. The ghat becomes a focal point for the ritualistic bathing during this massive gathering.

Ganga Aarti in Haridwar:
Location: The Ganga Aarti in Haridwar is predominantly performed at Har Ki Pauri, a revered ghat on the banks of the Ganges. Har Ki Pauri is believed to be the spot where Lord Vishnu left his footprint, making it especially sacred.

Timing: The Ganga Aarti is usually held in the evening, just after sunset. The timing may vary slightly depending on the time of year, as it is often aligned with the prevailing sunset.

Symbolism: The Ganga Aarti is a symbolic act expressing the reverence and gratitude of the people towards the river Ganges, which is considered sacred in Hinduism. The ceremony also symbolizes the purification of the soul and the dispelling of darkness through the light of knowledge.

History Of Haridwar

Ancient Roots: Haridwar’s history can be traced back to ancient times, and it is mentioned in various Hindu scriptures, including the Vedas and the Mahabharata.

Legend of Har Ki Pauri: One of the most significant landmarks in Haridwar is Har Ki Pauri, a ghat on the banks of the Ganges River. According to legend, Lord Vishnu left his footprint on a stone here, making it a sacred spot.

King Vikramaditya’s Connection: The historical king Vikramaditya is said to have constructed the famous bathing ghat, Brahmakund, at Har Ki Pauri in memory of his brother Bhartrihari. The ghat has since become a focal point for pilgrims during the Kumbh Mela.

Mughal Influence: During the Mughal era, Haridwar saw both periods of prosperity and destruction. The Mughal emperor Akbar visited the city and recognized its importance, while Aurangzeb is said to have destroyed several Hindu temples in the region.

Colonial Period: During the British colonial period, Haridwar continued to be a center for Hindu religious practices. The British recognized its significance and made efforts to improve infrastructure and facilities for pilgrims.

Post-Independence Era: After India gained independence in 1947, Haridwar became part of the state of Uttar Pradesh. In 2000, when the new state of Uttarakhand was carved out of Uttar Pradesh, Haridwar became a part of the new state.

Mythology About Haridwar

The name “Haridwar” translates to “Gateway to God,” and the city is considered one of the seven holiest places in Hinduism. Several myths and legends are associated with Haridwar, adding to its spiritual significance. Here are some prominent mythological aspects related to Haridwar:

Ganga Dussehra: One of the most significant festivals celebrated in Haridwar is Ganga Dussehra. According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that the Ganges River descended to the earth on this day. The river is considered sacred, and taking a dip in the Ganges during Ganga Dussehra is believed to wash away sins. Pilgrims gather in large numbers to participate in the festivities and take a holy dip in the river.

King Bhagirath’s Penance: Haridwar is associated with the legend of King Bhagirath, who performed severe penance to bring the Ganges to the earth. It is said that Bhagirath’s ancestors were cursed, and to liberate them, he sought the help of Lord Shiva. Pleased with his penance, Shiva released the Ganges from his hair, and it flowed onto the earth at Haridwar.

Chandi Devi Temple: The Chandi Devi Temple, situated atop the Neel Parvat, is dedicated to Goddess Chandi. According to mythology, it is believed that the temple was built to honor Goddess Chandi, who killed the demon kings Shumbha and Nishumbha. The temple is accessible by a cable car or a trek, and pilgrims visit to seek the blessings of the goddess.

Mansa Devi Temple: The Mansa Devi Temple, located on the Bilwa Parvat, is dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi. According to the legend, Mansa Devi is believed to fulfill the wishes of her devotees. Pilgrims often tie threads to the sacred tree in the temple premises, symbolizing their wishes, and return to untie them once their wishes are fulfilled.

Har Ki Pauri: Har Ki Pauri is a sacred ghat on the banks of the Ganges in Haridwar. The name translates to “Footsteps of God.” According to mythology, it is believed that Lord Vishnu left his footprint on a stone at this spot. The evening Ganga Aarti performed at Har Ki Pauri is a mesmerizing and spiritually uplifting experience for visitors.