Synonymous To Salvation

Every story of Garmukteshwar revolves around salvation. One story says that Lord Ganesha was liberated on the name of Lord Shiva here. Another story mentions of Ganas of Lord Shiva who were liberated from the demon forms. One more story talks of the devotees of Lord Vishnu who were freed from curse by Shiva at Garmukteshwar.

Mention of Garmukteshwar, a holy site in UP, is found in Mahabharata and Bhagwat Puran. It is believed that Garmukteshwar was part of Hastinapur during Mahabharata times and its ancient name was Shivallabhpuram. 

In ancient times sacred Ganga used to flow by the steps of famous Ganga temple in Garhmukteshwar. It is said, when a stone is thrown close to its steps it gives a sound of water as if Ganga still flows there. Recently stairs have been covered because there used to be lot of stone throwing that damaged steps. Purohit of the temple told me that because of the covering on three sides now it is difficult to experience the water sound with clarity as it echoes. He directed me to make a hard clap with both palms near steps. I tried but didn’t work. Purohit himself tried for me yet I couldn’t hear.

I set my base at Brijghat, the bathing Ganga ghat of Garmukteshwar, from there I moved on my walking spree to Garmukteshwar and walked back. A pleasant route with orchards on one side and farms on the other side. Had some fun time with children on the way who were relishing their freshly plucked berries. Observing farmers harvesting sugarcane. And interacting with artisans weaving Patera grass mats.

Brijghat has lively athmosphere with lots of boating options available. Beautiful riverfront and long walkway with ample seating under shades. There are plenty of changing enclosures for women.

I walked on the floodplains under the bridge to meet some farmers there and had long discussions with them. While walking on Ganga bridge at Brijghat, I noticed two boys making rhythmic movements in the river. I couldn’t understand. Asked a local person and laughed hearing the answer. Both boys were searching for coins with magnets tied to their feet. People throw coins in ganga as a ritual. Same day I noticed another method of collecting coins at Ganga ghat. 

My engrossing Ganga walks to the spiritual heritage of Garmukteshwar and the lively Brijghat enthralled me.