The Effects of Religious Heritage on Water Bodies in India & Management of its Environment Impact

In India, water and water bodies have been an object of worship from time immemorial.  They have diverse socio-religious uses and play a central role in many religious ceremonies and rites in India. Water is considered a purifier in most religions. Major faiths that incorporate ritual washing include Christianity, Hinduism, and Islam. Water, in addition to having ecological significance as a source & sustainer of life, plays a vital role in holy rituals or rites Lakes and artificial reservoirs were used for activities like irrigation, washing and were sanctified and the waters were drawn only in times of drought  or similar times of crisis. Their waters (tirtham) are believed to cleanse all sins. However, over the years, the ever increasing size of religious fairs and festivals which severely affect the purity of rivers and tanks and the increasing proclivities of the burgeoning Indian population to observe various rituals in rivers, without giving a care about the resultant water pollution, are causes for worry from perspectives of sanitation, hygiene and environmental protection. This research paper discuss the effect of religious heritage on water bodies and management of its impact on environment.

Key Words: Religious heritage of India, environmental impact, water management