[44

INDIA

to an intricate network of small channels circling round
huge sand spots and islets in times of drought—yet
never failing altogether. The Ganges still retains the
sanctity that Brahmanism has accorded to it through all
ages. Hardwar, at the point where the river leaves the

Sow “pry

FMT mm

F1G. 44.—Northern India Railway Communication.

Himalayas, is still the sacred city, the great city of
pilgrimage, and of that ablution which washes away
sin, It is still the central attraction of vast crowds of
worshippers who congregate at the yearly mela, or fair.
But it is said that its days as the holy river of India
are numbered, and that its saving graces are soon to be
transferred to the Narbada.
The fall in the Ganges river bed from the Himalayan