25 Jul Exploring the Mythology and Legends Behind Char Dham

Char Dham, located in the Indian Himalayas, comprises four sacred pilgrimage sites, namely, Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Each of these sites has its own unique myths and legends that add to their spiritual significance.

Yamunotri: Yamunotri, dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, is the source of the Yamuna River. According to Hindu mythology, the river Yamuna is the daughter of Surya, the Sun God, and Sangya, consciousness personified. Her twin brother, Yama, is the God of Death. Yamuna is worshipped as a mother figure and a symbol of love and compassion.

Gangotri: Gangotri, the origin of the sacred river Ganga (Ganges), has a deep-rooted mythology. Hindus believe that Goddess Ganga descended to Earth in response to the prayers of King Bhagiratha to help cleanse the sins of his ancestors. The river is regarded as a divine purifier in Hinduism. The location of her descent is known as “Bhagirathi Shila”, which is near the temple at Gangotri.

Kedarnath: The Kedarnath shrine is devoted to Lord Shiva and is considered one of the twelve “Jyotirlingas”. The legend says that after the Kurukshetra war, the Pandavas sought Shiva to ask for his forgiveness for the killing of their kin. Shiva, displeased with them, decided to evade. He took the form of a bull and hid in the Garhwal region. On being pursued by the Pandavas, he dived into the ground leaving his hump on the surface. That hump is worshipped in Kedarnath.

Badrinath: Badrinath is the abode of Lord Vishnu. The mythology says that Lord Vishnu meditated under a Badri Tree for a long time, exposed to harsh weather. To shield him from the scorching sun, his consort, Goddess Lakshmi, took the form of a Badri Tree, giving the name Badrinath to the place. It is also believed that this is where Vishnu revealed to Narada, the divine sage, the means of salvation.

Each of these tales and legends imbues the Char Dham Yatra with an added depth of spirituality and faith. They have been passed down generations and continue to instill a sense of reverence and awe in the pilgrims and visitors. More than just physical locations, Char Dham is an embodiment of the divine myths and sacred history of Hinduism.

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Read more about Chardham Yatra Ex Haridwar/ Dehradun/ Rishikesh