Abstract
The river Ganges is a symbol of wealth, purity and eternity, and its sacred waters have inspired sages, philosophers, and artists in India who have immortalized its divine imagery. However, it has rarely been understood from a historical point of view, as to how it became so sacred and to view it from a multi-dimensional and interdisciplinary perspective with an accumulation of layers of historical thought and practices, provides a rationale for the living practices around the river. The paper explores the evolution of the concept of sacredness and eternity of River Ganges through art- historical and archaeological evidence. It investigates into its multiple identities and complex personifications in Hindu mythology, elaborations in Sanskrit literature and portrayals in stone sculpture.
Recommended Citation
Rao, Nalini
(2022)
"Ganges in Indian Sculpture and Literature: Mythology and Personification,"
Monsoon: South Asian Studies Association Journal: Vol. 1:
Iss.
1, Article 1.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.lmu.edu/monsoon-sasa-journal/vol1/iss1/1
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