Concept:
The
Godavari River is popularly known as the
"Dakshin Ganga" or
"Ganga of the South" because it is the
longest river in peninsular India and holds great cultural, economic, and religious importance similar to the Ganga in northern India. The river originates from the
Trimbakeshwar Hills in the
Western Ghats near Nashik in Maharashtra. From there, it flows eastward across the Deccan Plateau and finally drains into the
Bay of Bengal. The Godavari River basin covers several Indian states and supports agriculture, irrigation, and water supply for millions of people.
Step 1: Understanding why Godavari is called Dakshin Ganga.
The Godavari River is given this name because:
- It is the longest river in South India.
- It flows through a large part of peninsular India.
- It has great religious and cultural significance.
- It supports agriculture and livelihoods similar to the Ganga in northern India.
Because of these similarities, the river is popularly called the
"Dakshin Ganga".
Step 2: Major facts about the Godavari River.
- Length: Approximately
- Source: Trimbakeshwar, Maharashtra
- Drainage Basin: Second largest river basin in India after the Ganga
- States Covered: Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Madhya Pradesh
Step 3: Evaluating the options.
- Krishna River: Major peninsular river but not called Dakshin Ganga.
- Godavari River: Known as the Dakshin Ganga. (Correct)
- Narmada River: West-flowing river into the Arabian Sea.
- Kaveri River: Important river in South India but not known by this title.
Therefore, the correct answer is: