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Ganges pilgrims passing a ghaut, 1864. Creator: Mason Jackson
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Ganges pilgrims passing a ghaut, 1864. Creator: Mason Jackson
Ganges pilgrims passing a ghaut, [India], 1864. 'The road between Allahabad and Benares is literally crowded with pilgrims to the sacred river...They are coming from, or going to, every part of India - Thibet, and even Birmah. Here and there the crowds are so dense that it is with difficulty that you make your way through them. Our Illustration shows a party of holy-water venders passing a ghaut, or the steep, ragged incline leading to a ford of one of the numerous nullahs, or mountain streams which intersect their road to the outlying districts, where they will dispose of the so-called sacred water to those Hindoos who are too poor to make the pilgrimage themselves, or are prevented by other causes from undertaking it. The water is used in offerings and other religious ceremonies, and is supposed to possess miraculous curative properties. It is taken from the confluence of the Jumna and the Ganges, the most sacred spot, where the small bottles are filled and sealed by the officiating Brahmin, and then deposited in neat partitions in the baskets. These pilgrims are regarded with superstitious veneration. They have made a journey of perhaps a thousand miles on foot by easy stages'. From "Illustrated London News", 1864
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Media ID 38073533
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Basket Baskets Belief Blessed Containers Faith Ganges Ganges River Hindu Hinduism Hindus Holy Holy Water Jackson M Jackson Mason M Jackson Mason Jackson Pilgrim Pilgrimage Pilgrims River Ganges Sacred Traveller Travellers Turban Turbans Head Dress
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print by Mason Jackson captures a moment in time from 1864, showcasing Ganges pilgrims passing a ghaut in India. The scene is bustling with activity as pilgrims from all corners of the country make their way to the sacred river for religious ceremonies and offerings.
The image depicts a group of holy-water vendors navigating through the crowded ghaut, carrying bottles filled with water believed to possess miraculous healing properties. These vendors play a crucial role in providing sacred water to those who are unable to make the pilgrimage themselves due to poverty or other reasons.
The road between Allahabad and Benares is described as being packed with pilgrims, creating dense crowds that pose challenges for travelers trying to navigate through them. Despite the difficulties, these dedicated individuals have traveled long distances on foot to reach this sacred spot where they collect and distribute holy water.
This historic photograph not only offers a glimpse into the religious practices of the time but also highlights the deep-rooted traditions and superstitions surrounding pilgrimage along the Ganges River. It serves as a reminder of the enduring spiritual significance that this iconic river holds for millions of people across India.
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