SURAT - The city of Surat was imbued with spiritual fervor and joy as locals gathered en masse to celebrate the birthday of the revered Tapi river, also known as Suryaputri Tapi, honoring its significant role in their lives and culture.
Considered holy and the daughter of the Sun god, Surya, the Tapi river is steeped in spiritual significance. It's said in ancient scriptures that those who meditate upon Lord Suryanarayan on Tapi's banks are blessed with their heart's desires.
The birthday of the Tapi river, which is commemorated every year, witnessed the city pulsating with excitement and religious piety. The celebration was highlighted by the offering of a traditional 1100 meter 'chundri' to the river by the Shri Kurukshetra Crematorium Trust, drawing a large turnout of devotees.
The ritual of offering a 'chundri' is a longstanding tradition that underscores the Tapi river's importance in Hindu scriptures, which state that merely remembering the river can absolve sins. The Tapi Purana and other ancient texts provide detailed accounts of the river's origin and significance.
The commemoration of Tapi's birth, or its descent day, sees the banks of the river brimming with faithful followers offering 'chundri' to the holy river in an expressive display of their devoutness. This year, a particularly lengthy 1100 meter 'chundri' was offered to the river.
These celebrations aren't limited to one location. Various riverbanks across Surat city participate in the festivity, with significant events taking place at the Navadi Ghat and the Shri Kurukshetra Crematorium Trust. A 'Maha Aarti' is also conducted during the morning and evening. This year's ceremony saw the presence of State Union Minister Darshana Jardosh and numerous spiritual leaders, marking the dedication of the 'chundri' to Tapi Mata.
Originating from the Satpura mountain range near the Multai district of Madhya Pradesh, the Tapi river extends over 724 km, flowing through Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat. The city of Surat, also known as Suryapur, is situated on the banks of the Tapi river, making the river its lifeline.
The Tapi river is unique in the sense that its birthday, falling on 'Ashadh Sud Satam', is celebrated grandly only in Surat. The citizens of Surat, affectionately referred to as Surtis, venerate the Tapi river as their mother, fondly termed the 'Jeevdori of Surat'. Several temples dedicated to the river dot the city, with daily worship and gratitude offered to Tapi Mata.
The celebrations encapsulate the integral role the Tapi river plays in the lives of Surat's residents, as they honor their cherished lifeline with grandeur, faith, and deep-seated respect.
