RAS question
Which river is known as the 'Dakshin Ganga' (Ganga of the South)?
Correct answer: (A) Godavari.
The Godavari is known as the Dakshin Ganga, or Ganga of the South, because of its great length and religious importance in peninsular India.
Explanation
Godavari is known as the Dakshin Ganga. It is the longest peninsular river, with a length of 1465 km, and the name Dakshin Ganga is linked to its large size and religious significance. India-WRIS Wiki describes the Godavari as often referred to as the Vriddh Ganga or Dakshin Ganga, with a long course across south-central India before it empties into the Bay of Bengal. In RAS geography, Godavari is the standard river known as Dakshin Ganga.
Why the other options are wrong
- (B) Kaveri is associated with the title Ganga of the South in some traditions, but Godavari carries the standard Dakshin Ganga association because of its larger size and religious significance.
- (C) Krishna is a major peninsular river and the second-longest peninsular river, but the title Dakshin Ganga is attached to Godavari.
- (D) Narmada is a major west-flowing river, whereas Dakshin Ganga refers to the Godavari, a long peninsular river with religious significance.
Concept
Nicknames and defining features of India's peninsular rivers connect physical geography with cultural significance in a single RAS recall point.