Existential And Cosmological Issues In Hinduism

Scarcity of resources, massive overpopulation and a plethora of other problems are felt by the people of India, but one closer to their hearts is becoming harder and harder to ignore. The Ganges River is regarded as one of the most sacred places in India as it runs through nearly the entire northern region of the sub-continent. It is also seen by Hindus “as a gift from the gods- the earthly incarnation of the deity Ganga”, yet human and industrial pollutants have and continue to turn it into an open sewer. Hindus who recognize the severity of the pollution are deeply offended and alarmed at the disgrace and degradation of their holy place, but others choose ignorance. It is because of the spiritual importance of the Ganges as a place of purity

This concept defines “Hinduism’s understanding of existential and cosmological issues”, and furthermore can determine a Hindus place in the Caste system. After one understands what karma is in relation to Hinduism it can then be deduced that there is both good and bad karma. Good karma is acquired through good deeds and actions that increase the amount of positive energy in the universe, while bad karma is the result of selfish and negative action. Good karma is acquired in a samsaric process represented by many lifetimes and allows Hindus to “generate merit by increasing their positive karma, which enables them to gain a more favorable rebirth”. As a Hindu advances within the Caste system they become closer and closer to spiritual liberation also known as moksha. Although good karma does not mean immediate moksha, it does reflect a Hindus progress on their journey and brings them closer to

A simple search query for: Ganges River results in grotesque images of a river of garbage filled with plastic and void of life. The unacceptable state of the Ganges is the result of several incidents such as the “Union Carbide pesticide plant in...Bopal [that] leaked 27 tons of deadly methyl isocyanate gas”, or local tanneries that do not abide by government regulation on the disposal of wastewater, and moreover civilians themselves. Hindus often deposit plastic flowers into the Ganges to gift the deity Ganga and symbolize their great respect and appreciation, but they fail to realize the harmful effects. This effectively pollutes the river even more and their good intentions have negative consequences. By doing this Hindus unintentionally contribute to their negative karma and further distance themselves from moksha. If Hindus could see the karmic benefit in improving the health of the Ganges the current state of deadly microorganism and overall quality of the water of the Ganges would dramatically improve. As stated by Rakesh Jaiswal “The only problem is that the issue is not a priority for the Indian government.”. Because the Indian government has shown a lack of willingness to rebuild the river the responsibility now falls on the people. It could start will small actions that do not take anything away from them. Instead of dumping the dead bodies of their loved ones they could have funerals