The Birth of the Ganga

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A lavishly illustrated mythological story of the origins of the Indian river Ganga and its powerful purifying properties. 46 full-color art reproductions bring to life many of the Indian saints and gods whose names abound in Hindu scripture and history Unique in Indian art, this book's figures are inspired by the high classical style of the Ajanta caves and temple of Khajoraho Includes a description of the ancient technique of silk painting used in creating the illustrationsTranslated for the first time in English, The Birth of the Ganga tells the mythological story of the origins of the river Ganga (known in the West as the Ganges River) and its powerful purifying properties. According to scriptures, Ganga was a goddess residing in heaven but was brought down to earth in the form of a river to provide salvation to the ancestors of King Bhagirath. It is said that not only did Ganga save King Bhagirath's ancestors, but she provided a means of purification for the entire population of human beings on earth. Today pilgrims travel from all over the subcontinent to bathe in the river as an act of worship in the hopes of obtaining her blessings and realizing salvation.The Birth of the Ganga will delight readers young and old alike for not only is it a wonderful story of good deeds leading to a just ending, but its 46 illustrations bring to life many of the Indian saints and gods whose names abound in Hindu scripture and history. The original illustrations, hand-painted on silk, are inspired by the high classical style of the Ajanta caves and temples of Khajoraho. Johari has restored this classical art form in accordance with the Hindu canon.