Introduction
Bhagiratha is a king of Ayodhya, the son of Dilipa. He brought the Ganga to earth to free the ashes of his ancestors, the sons of Sagara.
This article primarily follows the Valmiki Ramayana. Where a well-known detail comes from a later retelling or tradition, the article identifies it.
Family
The penance
Bhagiratha went to the Himalayas and performed austerities for a thousand years. Brahma appeared and agreed to send the Ganga to earth. Shiva then received her fall in his hair.
The journey
The Ganga followed Bhagiratha's chariot to the ocean, and passed over the ashes of Sagara's sons, who were freed. She is called Bhagirathi, and the word "bhagiratha prayatna" is still used in India for a heroic effort.