The River Yamuna is intertwined with Delhi’s identity throughout history. Tracing its course through time reveals how this sacred river nourished civilization and remains the lifeline of Old Delhi.
Legends of the Yamuna
The Yamuna originates from Yamunotri glacier as revered in Hindu texts. Do you know it is considered the maternal half of Lord Krishna?
You’ll be amazed to know ancient myths state Yamuna’s water turned poisonous after Krishna was struck by an arrow while resting on its banks. His death imbued the river with divinity.
Not only that, the Yamuna is worshipped as a goddess during festivals like Chhath Puja. Exploring the stories around Delhi’s mythical river goddess is fascinating.
Medieval Significance
By the Sultanate era, camps and fortresses dotted the Yamuna’s west bank. Did you know Siri Fort was built alongside it by Alauddin Khilji for supply access?
You’ll be shocked that during the 1857 Revolt, Indian soldiers used the river’s cover to recapture Delhi from Europeans who then blew up bridges to the walled city.
Not only that but Akbar’s new capital Fatehpur Sikri also owed its existence to the River Yamuna flowing nearby. The strategic river nourished Delhi’s medieval era capitals.
Mughal Magnificence
Mughal Delhi flourished on the Yamuna’s fertile banks. Do you know Shahjahan built the Red Fort and Jama Masjid along its edge?
You’ll be amazed that during the Phoolwalon Ki Sair festival floral pankhas are offered to the river remembering the courtesans welcomed here.
Not only that but the Yamuna was central to Mughal leisure like floating gardens, canals, and promenades along the waterfront. The river breathed life into the empire.
Old Delhi Lifeline
Today, the Yamuna remains crucial for Delhi as its primary water source. Do you know Old Delhi depends on the vital waters flowing under its bridges?
You’ll be shocked that festivals, cattle bathing, and cremation ceremonies along the ghats persist in old customs.
Not only that but the Yamuna nourishes local vegetable farms and provides livelihoods along its banks even as pollution threatens its future.
Understanding the Yamuna’s cultural significance and ties to Old Delhi is critical to protecting this living heritage. The life-giving river’s timeless tales must inspire its revival.
The River Yamuna is much more than just a waterway cutting through Delhi. Its waters have nourished civilization here for centuries. Generations have depended on the Yamuna, built their lives alongside it, and worshipped it as a goddess. Sadly, today it is polluted and struggling. But it is not too late to undo past mistakes.
Reviving the Yamuna river requires protecting its flow, cleaning its waters, and respecting its sacred spirit once again. Its timeless tales remind us that this ancient nurturer of Delhi deserves a second chance. If cared for, the Yamuna can enrich our lives for generations to come, just as it has done so for millennia past.
