6 things to NEVER do if you keep Gangajal in home | The Times of India (2024)

Gangajal, the sacred water that people get from the river Ganga, is very spiritual, pure, respected, and important, for Hindus all over the world. It is said and even some studies prove that Gangajal has purifying capabilities that are not present in ordinary water sources. And for Hindus all over the world, Gangajal is pure, has divine qualities, and the ability to wash away any sins. Thus, many households keep a can or bottle of Gangajal at home.

Here we list 6 things one should never do if they keep Gangajal at home.

An emerging trend today is that people carry big plastic water bottles with them and fill them up with Gangajal to get home. But, this practice is extremely wrong. Storing Gangajal in plastic bottles should be avoided as plastics can leach chemicals into the water, which will compromise its purity. Plus, plastic is not biodegradable, which makes them bad for the environment. Traditionally, Gangajal is stored in copper, silver, or glass containers, and copper in particular as it has antimicrobial properties and is believed to improve the benefits of the water.

No matter how the Gangajal is kept, in plastic or in copper, never touch that vessel with dirty unwashed hands. Touching the container with dirty hands is like disrespecting the purity of the water and can also add impurities to the Gangajal.
Always make sure that before you touch the vessel or bottle, or take Gangajal in your hands, they should be clean and washed as a form of respect to Maa Ganga.

Once you get the Gangajal home, it is also important to keep it in the right place. And many experts and elders say that Gangajal should never be kept near toilets or bedrooms. Toilets are considered unclean spaces and the home to waste and germs. And so, keeping the Gangajal close by can make it impure or attract germs towards the vessel it is kept in. Intentionally keeping it near to the bedroom and toilet is considered great disrespect to the Gangajal and should never be done.

Maa Ganga is known for her flow and energy. From Hairdwar to Rishikesh, Maa Ganga’s flow is famous and can wash away the gravest of sins. And so, it is said that Gangajal should not be kept stagnant for long.
While Gangajal is known for its ability to remain fresh for a long time, stagnant water can still develop moss or fungus, which will affect its purity.