Hindus suggest Oprah to take a dip in holy Ganges

Nevada (US), Jan 9 (ANI): Oprah Winfrey is reportedly scheduled to visit the holy city of Rishikesh in India and Hindus are suggesting her to immerse in yoga, meditation and take a dip in sacred river Ganges while she is there.

Distinguished Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada (USA) today, said that Winfrey should make use of her trip to India to "rediscover" herself by spending some time in an ashram (hermitage) and taking a dip in holy Ganges. It is believed that a bath in the sacred Ganges purifies one of all sin, and its water, if taken daily, confers immortality. It finds mention in Rig-Veda, oldest existing scripture of mankind.

Rajan Zed, who is president of Universal Society of Hinduism, pointed out that ashram stay would help bring Winfrey tranquility, spirituality and serenity. Lord Krishna himself went to sage Sandipani's ashram to gain knowledge, Zed added.

Ganges flows through Rishikesh (in Uttarakhand state), known as Gateway to Himalayas, which attracts large number of pilgrims from around the world. It is a vegetarian and alcohol-free city; full of temples, yoga centers and ashrams; and nicknamed "World Capital of Yoga". It is said to have been visited by Lord Rama and his brother Lakshmana; and Hindu scholars Swami Vivekananda, Swami Rama Tirtha and Swami Shivananda studied here. In 1968, The Beatles stayed in an ashram in Rishikesh to contemplate and meditate and composed 48 songs during that time. "The Happy Rishikesh Song" was recorded by John Lennon.

Winfrey is currently in India on a week-long trip. (ANI)