Water and Hinduism

• Holy places are usually located on the banks of rivers, sea-shores and lake-shores, convergence of two or three rivers, carry special significance 

• Milk and water are symbols of fertility, absence of which can cause barrenness, sterility leading to death.

• The Matsya Avatara of Lord Vishnu is said to have appeared to King Manu while he washed his hands in a river.

• 'Poorna Kumba' literally means a full pitcher (of water). Poorna Kumbha, with fresh leaves of mango tree and a coconut on top symbolizing God, is used during different religious rites.

• 'Tarpana', means offer/gratify. It is the act of pouring water through the hands with the use of sacred grass for thanking and pleasing Gods or fore-fathers.

• During all purification rites water is sprinkled on the objects which are to be purified. 

• Before starting a meal Hindus sprinkle water around the leaf or plate in which the meal is traditionally eaten.

• There is also an important ritual called 'Sandhyopasana'. The important features of this ceremony are: 'Achamana' or sipping of water with recitation of Mantras, 'Marjana' or sprinkling of water on the body to purify, 'Aghamarshana' or expiation for the sins of many births, and 'Surya Arghya' or offering water to the Sun-god 

• Devotees takes water in his hands while facing the Sun, extends his arms outwards and lets a steady stream run from his eye-level to feet. This lets Sunʼs rays pass through the stream, and its rays refract before penetrating every part of the body.

• Water Therapy, both external and internal, has been practiced for centuries to heal the sick. 1.5 liters of water should be consumed each morning on an empty stomach, as well as throughout the day.

• Water plays a significant role in death as well. Many funeral grounds used to be located near the rivers in India. After cremation, the mourners bathe in the river before returning to their homes. After the third day, the ashes are collected, and on the tenth day these are cast into the holy river.

• The largest gathering of people in the world occurs at the Kumbh Mela which is a spiritual pilgrimage celebrated every three years. In Hindu mythology, it is said that a drop of immortal nectar was dropped into the Ganges during Samudra-Manthan (refer previous notes). Millions of Hindus bathe in the Ganga, believing their sins will be washed away and they will achieve salvation