The Brahmaputra River is a major river in Asia, flowing through China, India, and Bangladesh. Its name is derived from the Sanskrit word Brahma-putra, which means "son of Brahma". The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /brəˈmʌpʊtrə/, with emphasis on the second syllable. The spelling of the word reflects the correct pronunciation and is commonly used in English language texts. The Brahmaputra River is an important source of water, food, and transportation for millions of people living in the region.
The Brahmaputra River is one of the major rivers in Asia, flowing through several countries and known for its significant size and length. With a span of approximately 2,900 kilometers (1,800 miles), it originates from the Chemayángdung Glacier near Lake Mansarovar in Tibet, China. After its inception, the river flows eastward, crossing the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh, where it is known as the Siang or Dihang River. It continues its course through the Indian states of Assam and Meghalaya, where it is referred to as the Brahmaputra. Finally, it enters Bangladesh, merging with the Ganges River and ultimately empties into the Bay of Bengal.
The Brahmaputra River possesses tremendous hydrological importance due to its immense water volume and the large drainage basin it encompasses, making it one of the most significant rivers in the world. It plays a crucial role in the lives of millions by providing vital irrigation, transportation, and hydroelectric power generation. The river also shapes the intricate ecosystem of the regions it traverses, impacting the flora, fauna, and geological formations.
While it nurtures the land, the Brahmaputra River can also be unpredictable and prone to flooding in certain areas, leading to devastating consequences for the communities residing along its banks. Therefore, it presents both opportunities and challenges for the people who depend on its resources and face its occasional wrath.
Overall, the Brahmaputra River stands as a natural wonder, binding together diverse cultures and habitats, and acting as a lifeline for millions of people in Asia.
The word "Brahmaputra" originates from the Sanskrit language. It is a combination of two Sanskrit words, "brahma" and "putra". "Brahma" refers to the Hindu god Brahma, who is considered the creator of the universe in Hindu mythology. "Putra" means "son" or "child" in Sanskrit. Therefore, "Brahmaputra" can be translated as "Son of Brahma" or "Child of Brahma". The name is associated with the river's significance in Hindu culture and mythology.