Ep 2. The Gangetic Plain

The Ganges With Sue Perkins is a six-part documentary series that follows the British comedian and presenter as she travels down the Ganges River in India. In the second episode of the series, titled The Gangetic Plain, Perkins explores the vast expanse that makes up the lower reaches of the Ganges, an area known as the Gangetic Plain.

Perkins begins her journey at one of the most significant cities on the river, Kanpur. Here, she visits a tannery that has been operating for centuries, renowned for the quality of its leather and infamous for the environmental damage it causes. Perkins is keen to discover how the daily discharge of toxic chemicals into the river affects the people who live and work along its banks.

From Kanpur, Perkins continues her journey downstream, encountering the many other ways in which local people depend on the river. She meets farmers who rely on the Ganges to irrigate their crops, as well as fisherman who draw fish from the water to support their families. Perkins sets up camp in a village, and with the help of her local hosts, learns how to fish in the traditional way.

As Perkins continues her journey, she finds herself increasingly impressed by the resilience and resourcefulness of those who depend on the river. One particularly moving encounter sees her meet a woman who lost her husband to cancer, and who now runs a water distribution program for local communities, using a boat that she built herself. Perkins is struck by the practicality and determination of the woman, who is making a tangible difference to the lives of those around her.

Throughout the episode, Perkins is also on a personal journey of discovery, learning more about the culture and religion of the region. She spends time with a group of sadhus, or holy men, who have traveled to the river to perform a ritual that they believe will bring them closer to the divine. Perkins is fascinated by the complex beliefs and practices of these men, in particular their devotion to Lord Shiva.

As The Gangetic Plain draws to a close, Perkins reflects on everything she has seen and experienced. She marvels at the powerful bonds between the local people and the river, despite the challenges and hardships they face. Above all, she is struck by the profound spiritual significance that the Ganges holds for so many people, and the deep connection that they feel to the river and the life it supports. The episode ends with Perkins looking ahead to the next stage of her journey, eager to continue her exploration of one of the world's most iconic waterways.