Falgu River

A beautiful view of the river
Falgu (often Phalgu) River is one of the tributaries of the river Ganges. Gaya and Bodh Gaya are the most famous and important locations on the banks of the Falgu River. Gaya is a sacred city for Hindus, and Bodh Gaya is one of the holiest places for the Buddhists. In certain ancient texts, Falgu River finds mention as the Niranjana River[1].

There is reference to the city of Gaya and the Falgu River in the Hindu epic of Ramayana. Hindu mythology states that Sita who was wife of Lord Rama has cursed the Falgu River. This is an interesting story and the mythology states that on account of this curse, Falgu River lost its water, and the river is simply a vast stretch of sand dunes.

An eye witness accountof Falgu River state: “Across the road was the Falgu river, a mile wide, flatter and drier than the Sahara.” But the mass of water is available below the sand dunes. If one digs even a meter, the water seeps out and a small crater full of water is formed. In some places, water flows are also available.