Gokarna, 8 September 2026: River water must be allowed to flow naturally, as obstructing the flow and speed of rivers can lead to serious ecological consequences, Jagadguru Shankaracharya Sri Raghaveshwara Bharati Mahaswamiji, Sri Ramachandrapura Math, said.
Speaking on the theme of river water as part of the ‘Annam Brahma’ series at the ‘Anantha Brahma Chaturmasya’ Dharma Sabha being held at the Ashoke Moola Math premises in Gokarna on September 8, 2026, the seer expressed concern over the pollution of the Ganga and the growing interference with natural river systems.
He said that Hindu tradition attaches immense spiritual and cultural significance to the Ganga. “There is a belief that those who consume Ganga water can escape the mythical Vaitarani river of hell. But in the name of civilisation, we have turned the Ganga itself into a Vaitarani,” he said.
Raghaveshwara Sri described the pollution of the Ganga as a grave injustice to the country, nature and future generations. He said the condition of the river changes drastically after Haridwar, with sewage and human waste being discharged into the river.
“Polluting the Ganga is an offence against the country, creation and future generations. History will not forgive us for this mistake,” he said, stressing that the damage to the Ganga also affects the natural cycle of creation.
Traditional and scientific significance
Explaining the traditional importance attributed to Ganga water, the seer said Ayurveda acharyas had associated Ganga water with the balance of the three doshas and digestive fire. He recalled that kings and rulers in earlier times stored Ganga water in large silver vessels and believed that properly preserved Ganga water could remain usable for very long periods.
He also referred to modern research on the river, saying studies had identified distinctive microorganisms in Ganga water and suggested that the river possesses certain natural self-purification properties. He said such observations have been cited as supporting some traditional views about the special characteristics attributed to Ganga water.
‘Do not obstruct rivers’
Raghaveshwara Sri particularly stressed the need to preserve the natural flow of rivers.
“Rivers should not be stopped. A river cleanses itself through its natural flow. Stopping rivers can lead to disasters and create several problems in nature. Therefore, the flow and speed of rivers should not be obstructed.”
SriKanta Sharma Madodi and his family offered Gurubhiksha Seva. Niduvaje Rama Bhat was present as the day’s organiser.
Keywords: Raghaveshwara Sri, river water, Ganga pollution, river flow, Gokarna, Sri Ramachandrapura Math, Gokarna News Today, Annabrahma Chaturmasya, Citizen News Puttur