Part of: Maharashtra Gk set 55

Which river is considered sacred and flows through Maharashtra?

Category: Maharashtra Gk

Hint: Consider the rivers that are revered in the state of Maharashtra.

Correct Answer: C) Godavari

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

The Godavari River is one of the most important rivers in India, particularly in the southern and central regions. It is often referred to as the "Ganges of the South" due to its cultural and religious significance. The Godavari originates from the Trimbakeshwar hills in the Nashik district of Maharashtra and flows through several states before emptying into the Bay of Bengal. It is considered a sacred river and is revered by Hindus, who believe that bathing in its waters can cleanse sins and bring spiritual purification.

The Godavari River is not only significant for its religious importance but also for its ecological and economic contributions. It is a major source of water for irrigation, drinking, and industrial use in the states it flows through. The river basin supports a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it an important ecological region.

Among the options provided, the Ganga (Option A) and the Yamuna (Option B) are both sacred rivers, but they are located in the northern part of India and do not flow through Maharashtra. The Ganga is the most sacred river in Hinduism and flows through several northern states, including Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal. The Yamuna is a tributary of the Ganga and flows through states like Uttarakhand, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.

The Narmada (Option D) is another sacred river, but it flows through central India, primarily through the states of Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat. It is the fifth-longest river in India and is also considered sacred by Hindus, but it does not flow through Maharashtra.

Therefore, the Godavari (Option C) is the correct answer as it is the sacred river that flows through Maharashtra and holds significant cultural and religious importance in the state.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: The Ganga is a sacred river, but it does not flow through Maharashtra. It is primarily associated with the northern part of India.
  • Option B: The Yamuna is another sacred river, but it is located in the northern part of India and does not flow through Maharashtra.
  • Option C: The Godavari is the correct answer. It is considered a sacred river and flows through Maharashtra, playing a significant role in the state's religious and cultural life.
  • Option D: The Narmada is a sacred river, but it flows through central India, primarily through the states of Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat, and does not flow through Maharashtra.

Mnemonic: G - Godavari, G - Great, G - Ganges of Maharashtra

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