From the majestic Himalayas, where snow-covered peaks touch the skies, the great Ganges River begins its journey. Flowing from the mountain regions near Nepal and northern India, its waters travel through valleys, plains, crowded cities, and rural villages before finally reaching the sea and beyond. Along this sacred path live millions of people in Unreached People Groups who have little or no opportunity to hear the gospel of Jesus Christ.

In the shadow of the Himalayas, Nepal and its capital city, Kathmandu, remain deeply shaped by Hindu and Buddhist traditions. Temples, shrines, rituals, and festivals fill daily life with spiritual devotion. As the river continues through Haridwar, Prayagraj, Varanasi, Patna, and Kolkata, it passes communities where generations have searched for cleansing, blessing, and salvation through religious traditions connected to the sacred river. Across South Asia and beyond, symbols connected to Diwali can still be found woven into cultures and traditions.

In places as far afield as Bali and even parts of Pakistan, the ancient eight-pointed star motif has been associated with prosperity, blessing, and spiritual light. During Diwali, many Hindus worship Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and fortune, believing she brings blessings and favor for the coming year. Homes are cleaned, decorated with lamps, and doors are intentionally left open through the night as an invitation for Lakshmi to enter and bless the household. Since the Hindu business new year often begins immediately after Diwali, this season carries deep spiritual and cultural significance filled with hope for prosperity, peace, and new beginnings.

Yet behind every lamp lit during Diwali is a deeper longing for peace, hope, and true light. God’s heart is for every people group and nation to know Him. As Isaiah 49:6 (NIV) declares, “I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that my salvation may reach to the ends of the earth.” As we follow the journey of the Ganges from the Himalayas to the ends of the earth, let us pray that many would encounter the true Light of the World, Jesus Christ, and experience the hope and salvation found only in Him.