India
/ Haridwar / History
Literally
translated, Haridwar means the 'Gateway to the abode of gods,'
Its long history going back to pre-historic times has given it
many names. In mythology it is known as Kapilsthan. Legend goes
that the Suryavanish Prince Bhagirath performed penance here to
salvage the souls of his ancestors who had perished due to the
curse of the sage kapila. The penance was answered and the river
Ganga trickled forth from Lord Shiva's locks and its bountiful
waters revived the sixty thousand sons of King Sagara.
Amongst its
other names, are Gangadwar, Tapovan and Mayapuri. Even the Chinese
traveller, Huien Tsang has mentioned it in his memories.
Mythologically,
drops of nectar churned out from the primordial ocean fell at
the four sites of the Kumbh fair including Haridwar Haridwar.
The Kumbh, (marking a 12-year solar cycle) and the Ardh Kumbh
fairs are held here when millions of devoted Hindus take a holy
dip in the Ganga.
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