Flowing like a silver thread through the heart of the Kashmir Valley, River Jhelum, originally known as Vitasta, is not just a geographical entity—it is a symbol of civilization, sacredness, and continuity. For Kashmiri Pandits, the ancient custodians of Kashmir’s spiritual and intellectual heritage, Vitasta is not merely a river, but a goddess, a giver of life and blessings, deeply revered in rituals, scriptures, and oral traditions.
Vitasta – The River of the Gods
The name Vitasta originates from ancient Sanskrit, and according to Nilamata Purana, the river was born from the divine trident of Lord Shiva, at the insistence of Goddess Parvati (Uma). The river was meant to purify the Kashmir Valley, which had emerged from the waters of the ancient Satisar Lake after it was drained by Rishi Kashyapa.
In the Nilamata Purana, Vitasta is described as the most sacred river, and worshipping her was believed to wash away all sins. The 15th day of the bright half of Bhadrapada (August–September) was celebrated as Vitasta Jayanti, an important religious event among Kashmiri Hindus.
The River and Kashmiri Pandit Civilization
For Kashmiri Pandits, Vitasta is not just a river, but the soul of their homeland. Ancient cities like Puranadhisthana, Parihaspora, and the original Srinagari were founded along its banks.
Key elements of the river’s cultural connection with Kashmiri Pandits include:
- Sacred Ghats like Vicharnag, Anantnag, Barinag, Habba Kadal, and Ganpatyar, which served as ritual centers.
- Daily rituals, immersions of ashes, and religious festivals centered around the river.
- Mention in Rajatarangini, the ancient chronicle by Kalhana, where kings of Kashmir often performed rituals along Vitasta.
The river was seen as a witness to Dharma, tapasya, and jnana (knowledge)—values central to the life of Kashmiri Brahmins.
When and Why the Name Changed
The name Vitasta remained in use throughout ancient and early medieval periods, including the Hindu and early Buddhist era.
However, during the 13th–14th century, with the advent of Islamic rule in Kashmir, many Sanskrit names were replaced with Persian or Arabic-influenced ones. The exact date of renaming is unclear, but the transition to “Jhelum” is widely believed to have occurred under the Shah Mir dynasty (1339–1561) or later during the Mughal rule (1586–1752).
- The Persian chroniclers and rulers referred to the river by the name “Behat” or Jhelum, a possible adaptation influenced by the Jhelum district in present-day Pakistan where the river also flows.
- Mughal documents and later British maps fully adopted the name Jhelum, effectively erasing the older name Vitasta from official and cartographic use.
This cultural renaming was part of a broader erasure of indigenous names, temples, and traditions, deeply affecting the identity of Kashmiri Pandits.
Current Status and Revival Efforts
In modern times, the name Jhelum is widely used, but among Kashmiri Pandits, the name Vitasta is still sacred and remembered in prayers, festivals, and oral traditions. Many community leaders and scholars are advocating for:
- Restoring the name Vitasta officially or at least recognizing it historically.
- Celebrating Vitasta Jayanti to preserve religious identity.
- Educating younger generations about their ancestral connection to the river.
A River of Memory and Identity
To the world, it may be the Jhelum, but to Kashmiri Pandits, it shall always be Vitasta—a sacred river born of Shiva’s will, flowing through their hearts, memories, and identity. As Kashmir undergoes social and cultural transformations, reclaiming the name Vitasta is not just a historical correction—it is a spiritual and civilizational revival.
Let us remember Vitasta, not just as a river, but as the pulse of Kashmir’s ancient soul.
Sources and References:
- Nilamata Purana – English translation by Ved Kumari Ghai
- Rajatarangini – Kalhana, translated by M.A. Stein
- The Valley of Kashmir – Sir Walter Lawrence (1895)
- Cultural Heritage of Kashmir – Dr. S.S. Toshkhani
- River Vitasta: Its Mythology and Significance in Kashmir – Indian Historical Review
- Encyclopaedia Britannica – “Jhelum River”
- Rigveda – Mandala 10, Hymn 75
- Oral traditions of Kashmiri Pandits and community writings