This book on urban water bodies, catchment areas and drainage pattern is set against the backdrop of the unprecedented heavy rainfall that severely deluged metropolitan cities and other parts of India in recent years. The recurring natural catastrophes in water-stressed cities of India and alarming rate of diminishing water bodies, wetlads and catchment areas needs a re-visit to an entire urban water-cycle. This book, thus, discusses how the processes and implementation of colonial urban development policies and projects have radically transformed the water bodies and their catchment areas – traditional water holding systems of Varanasi city. In this imperative colonial process, through the case study of Varanasi, the book mainly engages with the reasons behind the elimination of the temple tanks and ponds after the annexation of Varanasi by the British from 1775 till 1947. The book investigates the colonial notion of ‘dry city’, and how this notion crafted the process of separating land and water bodies, which arguably resulted in the reclamation and draining of water bodies, and also gave rise to water pollution. Additionally, the book analyzes the elimination of water bodies and loss of catchment areas through the ongoing processes of restoring the ancient city’s natural and cultural heritage. Print edition not for sale in South Asia (India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Bhutan)

Describing sacred waters and their associated traditions in over thirty countries and across multiple time periods, this book identifies patterns in panhuman hydrolatry. Supplying life’s most basic daily need, freshwater sources were likely the earliest sacred sites, and the first protected and contested resource. Guarded by taboos, rites and supermundane forces, freshwater sources have also been considered thresholds to otherworlds. Often associated also with venerated stones, trees and healing flora, sacred water sources are sites of biocultural diversity. Addressing themes that will shape future water research, this volume examines cultural perceptions of water’s sacrality that can be employed to foster resilient human–environmental relationships in the growing water crises of the twenty-first century. The work combines perspectives from anthropology, archaeology, classics, folklore, geography, geology, history, literature and religious studies.

A Spiritual Journey Up India S Most Sacred River This Is An Account Of A Journey Taken In India. The Destination Is The Origin Of The Ganga, The Holiest And Most Famous Of Indian Rivers. It Is A Physical Journey, Involving Months Of Trekking Through Forested Valleys And Snow-Covered Mountains. It Is Also A Journey Of The Spirit, Taking A Man Deep Into The Heart And Soul Of India S Ancient Religion. Stephen Alter, Who Was Born In The Himalayan Foothills, Crosses Many Miles And Several Millennia, To Search For The Source Of Hindu Religion. Along The Way, As He Reaches One Holy Spot After Another, Meeting Grounds For Pilgrims, Remote Towns And Forgotten Temples He Delves Into The Myths And Traditions Of Ancient Temples. He Explores Tales From The Epics, The Intimate Connection Between Natural History And Mystical Experience, And The Sacred Wisdom That Animates The Religious Legacy Of India. As Every Pilgrim Learns, A Spiritual Search Involves Travel, But Ultimately Returns To The Inner Self. Sacred Waters Is A Richly Told, Compelling Narrative Of A Whole Civilization And Of A Man S Interior Journey.

"The 3rd edition of National Geographic Traveler: India brings the ""land of princes"" to every traveler in gorgeous images, accessible map tours, enticing sidebars, and valuable insider tips. Experience daily life up-close on a rickshaw ride through Old Delhi or take a drive through colonial Mumbai for local flavor. Readers discover a fascinating history and culture from the life of Mahatma Gandhi to Indian spices and palace hotels as well as popular attractions such as the pink sandstone city of Jaipur, the water palaces of Udaipur, and, of course, the Taj Mahal. Lesser-known treasures in the country are also revealed, along with such practical information as getting around there and getting around, where to stay, and cultural and recreational musts to make the most of your visit."

Drawing from a variety of religious teachings, anthropological evidence and myths and legends from around the world, this book examines how the essential element water plays a vital role in all aspects of our spiritual lives.