Rishikesh's Ancient Secret: Unraveling the Name Hrishikesh and Its Spiritual Roots

• Rishikesh's original name is Hrishikesh, as per religious and mythological texts, meaning 'master of the senses'.
• The name Hrishikesh is derived from Sanskrit ('Hrish' = senses, 'Ish' = master) and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
• Lord Vishnu appeared to Saint Raibhya Rishi here, making it a sacred pilgrimage site known as Hrishikesh.
• Mentioned in Puranas (Skanda Purana, Padma Purana) as a land of penance, yoga, and spiritual practice.
• The name simplified to Rishikesh in common language and official records, though many saints still use Hrishikesh.

Why It Matters: Rishikesh, originally Hrishikesh, holds deep spiritual meaning as 'master of senses' dedicated to Lord Vishnu.