1. Introduction: Why the Narmada River Matters More Than Ever Today The Narmada River is one of India’s most sacred, ancient, and culturally powerful rivers. Flowing westward across Central India, the Narmada has shaped civilizations, sustained forests, nourished agriculture, and inspired spiritual traditions for thousands of years. Revered as a living goddess, the river is believed to cleanse sins, grant blessings, and sustain life wherever it flows. Yet today, the Narmada s