Although I am always willing to try new things, whatever they are, I would not be easily persuaded in taking the forty five day pilgrimage to bathe in the Ganges. According to wikipedia, in 2001 a record breaking 60 million people bathed in the river. Even though the Ganges is considered one of the holiest Indian rivers, I would not be at ease knowing that it is also one of the most polluted. It is stated on worldfocus.com that the Ganges river has been polluted with harmful chemicals, human bodily fluids, and even the dead bodies themselves. I myself would not partake in the whole adventure but I do think it would be quite an experience. I love knowing that there are so many dedicated and religious people that would be willing to take on this sacred trip, however, I am very mournful of the people that are killed or injured during the process. During 2003, 39 individuals were killed and another 57 were injured. Despite all of the evidence gearing away from the great pilgrimage, it is good to know that the Hindu people will not change their religion or tradition just because of the records. It is good to know that in a society where many individuals put aside religion, the Hindus of India still seem to keep their faith alive.
Monday, January 18, 2010
Kumbh Mela
Monday, January 11, 2010
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