How large was the ancient river named Saraswati?

 Saraswati was the largest and most magnificent river of ancient India, and flowed from the Himalayas (present day Himachal, Garhwal, Kumaon hills) parallel to the course of the Indus and separated from it by about 100 km till the port city of Dholavira on Rann of Kutch and ancient Dwarka on the Gulf of Kutch.

Rigvedic Saraswati the lost river

 Saraswati is among the most discussed rivers in the context of Indian history, the waters of which once flowed from the Himalayas to the Arabian Sea, separate from the other historically famous Indus(Sindhu) river. More than five thousand years ago, The mighty river Sarasvati was flowing in full strength through the arid desert of Western Bharat into the Arabian Sea.

Sarasvati is mentioned in Rig Veda and ancient sanskrit text, the oldest being the, Rig Veda, the Saraswati is described as the best and the purest among all rivers, which is fast-flowing and ocean-like, and it flows from the mountains to the sea. The later text epic Mahabharata too mentioned the Saraswati as lost in the desert sands, and then reappearing at different places in its downstream course, thus making it clear that the composer was aware of Saraswati losing its flow strength. According to the Sattelite image of ISRO, The Ghaggar Hakra river is identified was indeed the Vedic Saraswati River mentioned in the Rig Veda. several European scholars, as early as 1810s, reported that in the couplets sung by the common people in Rajasthan, the depopulation in the desert areas was blamed on the absorption or disappearance of the Saraswati or Ghaggar-Hakra.

They also observed high quality antique structures buried in sand which perished as the river dried up. several research papers published at the time and later identifies the Ghaggar-Hakra stream as the erstwhile river Saraswati. The identification of a river Saraswati in the region was well-accepted since the time of the British Raj and the argument that the river is just a poetic figment of imagination, came later by AIT/AMT proponents.

Drying of river Saraswati a time frame-

1. 2700 BCE - Kalibangan earthquake. This led to creation & activation of Yamuna tear faults in the Siwalik hills.

2. 2200 BCE- Second earthquake in Dholavira, which led to the next episode of tectonic shifts and creation of new faults lines.

3. 2000 BCE- Yamuna moves eastward towards Ganga, abandoning Saraswati that loses >50% of its water volume and Sutlej turns westward, abandons Saraswati, and joins Sindhu (Indus). Now Saraswati loses almost its entire volume of the glacier waters.

4. 1800 BCE- By this time the river stopped flowing into the sea at Rann of Kutch, from being a perennial ice-fed river, Saraswati now becomes a weak rain-fed stream.

5. Between 600-500 BCE, Unfortunately, owing to the monotonic weakening of Monsoons in the Siwalik areas that had set in long back, the rain-fed stream could not retain the previous heavy flow.

6. Further tectonic activities that created ridges (across Haryana and Rajasthan) turned this already dying rain-fed stream into a series of lakes & pools (the water bodies are still visible from flights). As the mighty Saraswati dies, people migrate to the Ganga Yamuna doab areas.

Ghaggar (the upper part of saraswati as it is named now) is still there as a thin monsoon time stream. It was the remnant of the Rig Vedic Saraswati river, which used to be a mighty river once which flowed all the way to the modern day Arabian sea. Rig Veda does not mention the drying of the Saraswati River - we can say that the Rig Veda was composed sometime atleast by 2000 BCE, So the forced dating of Rig Veda to1500 BCE is also incorrect.

What color is often associated with Ma Saraswati and why?

 Ma Saraswati is often associated with the color white,which symbolizes purity,knowledge and peace,all qualities associated in Hindu mythology with the goddess of knowledge,wisdom,music and the arts.

In Hindu culture,the color white is also considered a symbol of transcendence and spiritual growth, signifying the state of purity and enlightenment that Ma Saraswati embodies.White is said to represent the light of knowledge that dispels darkness and ignorance,making it an appropriate color for a goddess worshipped for wisdom and guidance.

Who are Adishakti, Durga, Parvati, Lakshmi, and Saraswati? Are they all the same? Who is supreme?

 According to all the scriptures and Mahapuranas, which are talking about the glory of Adi Parashakti only, Devi Bhubaneswari or Mata Lalita Tripura Sundari is supreme. Her full incarnation is Maa Parvati. So, Maa Parvati is Maa AdiShakti Durga, she is supreme.

According to Mahapuranas dedicated to AdiShakti, Maa Lakshmi and Saraswati is partial expansion of Maa Bhubaneswari Durga.

In Brahmanda Mahapuran, Mata Tripura Sundari married Prabhu Mahakameswara Mahadeva.

In Devi Mahatyam, the yoganidra is Devi Mahakali and the killer of Mahisasura is Devi Bhadrakali.

Devi Kaushiki is also expansion of Maa Parvati, according to Devi Mahatyam.

In Devi Bhagavatam, Devi Bhubaneswari Bhagavati and Bhubaneswara Mahadeva are the Adi purush and Adi Shakti, creater of all. In chapter 12 of 12th book of Devi Bhagavatam, in sloka 5 to 10, we get,

Killer of Durgamasura is maa Parvati, according to Devi Bhagavatam, chapter 28 of book 5.

Shiva is father of Vishnu, according to Devi Bhagavatam, chapter 1 of book 7,

In Tripura Rahasyam, also Maa Lalita Tripura Sundari is Adi ParaShakti.

Also, in other Puranas on Devi Adishakti’s glory, like Kalika Puran, Devi Puran, Mahabhagvatam etc, Mata Tripura Sundari or Adya Kali o Maa Durga/Uma is supreme.

The Reason for Observing a Fast for Goddess Durga or Saraswati: A Detailed Analysis

 

Introduction

Fasting is an ancient and sacred practice in Hinduism that symbolizes devotion, purification, and self-discipline. Observing a fast for Goddess Durga or Saraswati is a common spiritual tradition, undertaken to seek their blessings, increase inner strength, and attain wisdom and prosperity.

• Goddess Durga represents Shakti (divine energy), courage, and protection. She is worshipped during Navratri, Tuesdays, and Ashtami to remove negativity, overcome obstacles, and bring strength and success.
• Goddess Saraswati represents wisdom, knowledge, learning, and creativity. Her fasts, particularly on Vasant Panchami and Thursdays, help in enhancing intellect, focus, and spiritual growth.

This article explores in detail:

• The spiritual and scientific reasons behind fasting
• The significance of fasting for Goddess Durga and Saraswati
• Different types of fasting
• How to observe the fast properly
• The benefits of these fasts in daily life

1. The Spiritual and Scientific Reasons Behind Fasting

1.1 The Spiritual Significance of Fasting

• Fasting is a form of Tapasya (penance), helping devotees develop self-discipline and focus.
• It strengthens the connection between the mind, body, and soul, leading to spiritual awakening.
• When devotees fast, they redirect their energy towards devotion and prayer, rather than worldly distractions.
• Fasting is also a way to purify past karmas and invite divine blessings into one's life.

1.2 The Scientific Benefits of Fasting

• Helps in detoxifying the body by giving the digestive system a break.
• Improves metabolism and digestion.
• Enhances mental clarity and increases focus, which is why students and intellectuals often fast on Saraswati Puja.
• Reduces stress and anxiety, bringing a sense of calmness and balance.

2. The Significance of Fasting for Goddess Durga

2.1 Who is Goddess Durga?

• Goddess Durga is the Supreme Mother and Protector, worshipped as the destroyer of evil.
• She is the embodiment of Shakti (power), bringing courage, strength, and prosperity.
• Worshipping Durga through fasting helps devotees in overcoming struggles, fears, and negative energies.

2.2 When is Fasting for Durga Observed?

• Navratri Fasting (twice a year during Chaitra and Sharadiya Navratri).
• Tuesday Fasts (dedicated to Goddess Durga or her forms like Kali, Bhavani, or Chandi).
• Ashtami & Navami Vrat (observed on the eighth and ninth days of Navratri).

2.3 The Benefits of Observing a Fast for Durga

• Provides protection from negative forces and removes obstacles.
• Helps in gaining self-confidence and inner strength.
• Brings success, happiness, and prosperity in life.
• Helps in fulfilling desires, especially for those facing career or relationship challenges.

3. The Significance of Fasting for Goddess Saraswati

3.1 Who is Goddess Saraswati?

• She is the Goddess of Wisdom, Learning, Arts, and Music.
• Saraswati is worshipped by students, teachers, artists, writers, and scholars for intelligence and creativity.
• Her energy removes ignorance and darkness, leading to mental clarity and knowledge.

3.2 When is Fasting for Saraswati Observed?

• Vasant Panchami (Saraswati Puja) – The most important day dedicated to Saraswati.
• Thursday Fasting (since Thursday is ruled by Jupiter, the planet of wisdom).
• Navratri (Maha Saraswati Day) – The last three days of Navratri are dedicated to Saraswati.

3.3 The Benefits of Observing a Fast for Saraswati

• Enhances concentration, memory, and intelligence.
• Helps students perform well in academics.
• Strengthens creativity and talent in music, arts, and literature.
• Removes confusion, mental blocks, and lack of focus.

4. Different Types of Fasting for Durga and Saraswati

4.1 Nirjala Fast (Complete Fast)

• No food or water for the entire day.
• Observed by those seeking extreme purification and blessings.

4.2 Phalahar Fast (Fruit & Milk Fast)

• Devotees consume only fruits, milk, and nuts.
• Common during Navratri and Saraswati Puja.

4.3 Saatvik Fast (Simple Vegetarian Diet)

• Eating only simple vegetarian food, avoiding onion, garlic, and processed foods.
• Ideal for those who cannot fast completely but still want to observe devotion.

5. How to Observe a Fast for Durga and Saraswati Properly

5.1 Preparations Before the Fast

• Take a bath early in the morning and wear clean clothes.
• Set a clear intention for the fast (for success, wisdom, protection, etc.).
• Create a small altar with an idol or picture of the Goddess.

5.2 Step-by-Step Puja Rituals

For Durga Puja Fasting

1. Light a lamp (diya) with ghee or sesame oil.
2. Offer red flowers, kumkum, and sindoor to Goddess Durga.
3. Chant Durga Mantras, such as:
   “Om Dum Durgaye Namah”
4. Read the Durga Saptashati or Durga Chalisa.
5. Offer Bhog (food offering), such as kheer, coconut, or fruits.
6. Perform Aarti and conclude the puja.

For Saraswati Puja Fasting

1. Wear white or yellow clothes, as they are Saraswati’s favorite colors.
2. Offer white flowers, rice, and turmeric to the Goddess.
3. Chant Saraswati Mantras, such as:
   “Om Aim Saraswatyai Namah”
4. Read the Saraswati Stotra or Saraswati Chalisa.
5. Place books, pens, or musical instruments before her as an offering.
6. Perform Aarti and distribute prasad.

5.3 Breaking the Fast (Parana)

• The fast is usually broken after sunset or after completing the evening aarti.
• Devotees eat saatvik food such as fruits, khichdi, or milk-based sweets.

6. The Transformational Benefits of These Fasts

6.1 Spiritual Benefits

• Increases devotion and divine connection.
• Removes past karmic blockages.
• Enhances spiritual wisdom and self-awareness.

6.2 Personal & Psychological Benefits

• Improves focus, clarity, and willpower.
• Helps in overcoming fear, anxiety, and stress.
• Brings emotional balance and peace of mind.

6.3 Material Benefits

• Ensures academic and career success.
• Attracts wealth, happiness, and good fortune.
• Strengthens relationships and family bonds.\

Conclusion: Why Observing These Fasts is So Powerful

Fasting for Goddess Durga grants strength, courage, and protection, while fasting for Goddess Saraswati bestows wisdom, intelligence, and creativity.

Observing these fasts with faith and discipline brings tremendous transformation—not just spiritually, but also mentally and materially.