Prayagraj: The sacred waters of Ganga has always been attracting millions from all over the country who seek spiritual cleansing at its banks. However, historical evidence shows that Ganga Jal’s significance extended beyond Sanatani followers, finding acceptance among Christians worldwide for their ceremonial purposes.
Historian and former head of Medieval and Modern Department at Allahabad Central University Prof Yogeshwar Tiwari cited an interesting anecdote to drive his point.
“During the coronation ceremony of Edward VII in June 1902 in London, several large pitchers of Ganga Jal were shipped from Prayagraj to London by Maharaja Sawai Madhav Singh II of Jaipur,” said Tiwari.
He added that after the death of Queen Victoria, when Edward VII’s coronation was about to take place, Maharaja Sawai Madhav Singh II of Jaipur reached London in 1902 on his ship Olympia.
“Despite sea travel being prohibited at that time, the Maharaja’s attendance at Edward VII’s coronation was essential for diplomatic relations. Religious advisors suggested crafting large urns using silver coins to transport the water. He took along 8,000 litres of Gangajal filled in pitchers as the most important material,” he added.
An earlier account from March 1843, preserved in Prayagraj’s regional archives, documents Captain Leopold Van Arlick’s pilgrimage to Prayag, where he extensively documented its significance. The importance of the holy water could be gauged by the fact it was considered more sacred than even the Bhagavad Geeta in the English courts. “Fanny Parks, who stayed in erstwhile Allahabad between 1822-46 along with her husband, who was posted as the first assistant to the collector of customs during that time, writes in her diary, The water of this sacred river is used by Kanwar Wala (referring to Kanwariyas) and it is also used in the English courts of justice, in administering an oath to a Hindoo (Hindu). Such was the importance of Ganga Jal,” Tiwari said.