The Ganges River, also known as the Ganga, is the most sacred river in Hinduism and one of the most important waterways in India. The river originates in the Himalayas and flows through the northern states of India, providing water and fertility to millions of people. In addition to its formal name, the Ganges River is also known as Mother Ganga, Ganga maiya, and Gangavataran. Other synonyms for the Ganges River include Bhagirathi, as it is known in the upper reaches of the river, and Padma, as it is called in Bangladesh where it empties into the Bay of Bengal. The Ganges River is steeped in cultural and religious significance and plays an important role in the lives and livelihoods of millions of people.