BRADFORD, ENGLAND, August 26, 2002: The 6,000-strong local Hindu population is seeking permission from Bradford City Council to turn the River Aire into a “symbolic” Ganges — India’s holiest river, which is believed to wash away sin and release the soul from the body for its heavenward journey. “Many families cannot afford the journey to India,” said Morani Gupta, chairman of the World Council of Hindus in Yorkshire. “We wanted a site where we can say farewell to our loved ones with grace and dignity.” The local council is approaching the application to immerse ashes in the river cautiously. “I can assure people that no decision on such an issue would be made without the fullest possible consultation with the local community,” said Anne Hawkesworth, the council’s environment executive.
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