Translated
for the first time in English, The Birth of the Ganga
by Harish
Johari 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
(the Ganges)
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
of the Ganga book, hand-painted on silk, are inspired
by the high classical style of the Ajanta caves and
temples of Khajoraho. Harish Johari has restored this
classical art form in accordance with the Hindu canon.
46 full-color art reproductions bring to life many
of the Indian saints and gods whose names abound in
Hindu scripture and history. The book also includes
a description of the ancient
technique of silk wash painting used in creating
the illustrations.
