The Narmada — often hailed as the lifeline of central India — is currently fighting for its sanctity and survival. A nationwide debate has erupted following the dumping of tankers carrying 11,000 litres of milk into the river as part of a religious consecration.

The 21-day religious ceremony in Madhya Pradesh's Sehore district — barely 40 km from state capital Bhopal — saw huge quantities of havan samagri and coconuts being offered to the ‘holy’ fire by the thousands of devotees who attended it.

As per Hindu mythology, the Satdev area is believed to be the tapobhumi (land of penance) of the sapt rishis (seven sages), where Lord Shiva is said to have manifested in the form of Pataleshwar Mahadev. Consequently, large-scale rituals are frequently organised here.

The Narmada — which originates in Amarkantak — is already facing challenges due to rampant sand mining, the destruction of the dense forests lining its banks, and the discharge of chemical waste from industrial factories situated along its course. The environmental impact on the river is devastating and far-reaching. The latest incident is akin to introducing a 'biological poison' into the river. It also

Milk is a complex organic substance containing substantial quantities of proteins, fats and sugars (lactose). When thousands........

© National Herald