The End of the Sarasvati and Drishadvati Rivers: A Turning Point in the History of the Rig Veda

The Seven Rivers Civilization, located in the northwest of the Indian subcontinent, flourished around two major rivers: the Sarasvati and the Drishadvati. These rivers occupied a central place in the Rig Veda, the oldest sacred text of humanity. Their gradual disappearance marked a profound change in the lives of the populations and influenced the Velic culture.

Sarasvati and Drishadvati: pillars of the civilization of the 7 rivers

In the Rig Veda, the Sarasvati is described as a majestic, powerful and sacred river. It is celebrated for its fertility, which made the land prosperous, and for its spiritual role, because it symbolized purity and knowledge. The Drishadvati, smaller but equally vital, completed this river network that supported agriculture, trade and daily life.

These rivers were not only used to feed the people but also to establish advanced urban centers. Archaeologists have discovered many cities of the Seven Rivers Civilization along these waterways, such as Kalibangan and Rakhigarhi.

The end of rivers: a natural disaster

The disappearance of the Sarasvati and Drishadvati rivers is mainly due to major geological changes. According to studies, a powerful earthquake caused the diversion of two of their key tributaries: the Yamuna and the Sutlej. These rivers, which once fed the Sarasvati, changed their course, causing it to gradually dry up.

In the absence of water, the fertile lands began to turn into desert. This had a direct impact on the cities and towns in the region, forcing people to migrate to other areas, including the Ganges basin.

A cultural and spiritual impact

The disappearance of the rivers also disrupted Vedic traditions. The Sarasvati, once celebrated as a living force, became a memory. In later texts, it is described as a celestial or subterranean river, reflecting a cultural and spiritual transition.

The Rig Veda, while honoring this vanished river, also shows signs of adaptation. The hymns begin to mention more other rivers such as the Ganges, which will become central to Indian culture.

A turning point in the history of the 7 rivers civilization

The end of the Sarasvati and Drishadvati rivers marked a turning point in the history of the 7 rivers civilization. This change forced the populations to review their way of life, to move and to adapt to a new environment. It was also during this period that Vedic practices evolved, integrating new elements while keeping in mind the grandeur of the Sarasvati.

Today, archaeological research continues to reveal the importance of these rivers in ancient history. They are a reminder of how closely nature and human culture are linked.