Overview
The Shipra, derived from the Sanskrit Kshipra, is a river in the state of Madhya Pradesh in Central India. It rises in the eastern part of Indore district and flows northwards across the Malwa Plateau, eventually joining the Chambal River at the boundary between Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan in Mandsaur district.
The Shipra is regarded as one of the sacred rivers of Hinduism. The historic city of Ujjain is situated on its eastern bank, with elaborate riverside ghats that host the Ujjain Simhastha, a major bathing festival held every twelve years. Yearly celebrations are also dedicated to Kshipra, who is venerated as a river goddess in the Hindu tradition. Hundreds of Hindu shrines line the banks of the river along its course.
In cultural usage, the word "Shipra" is invoked as a symbol of purity, chastity and clarity, alluding to qualities of the soul, the emotions and the body. According to the Puranas, the river is described as having originated from the heart of Varaha, the boar incarnation of Vishnu. The banks of the Shipra are also associated with the hermitage of Sage Sandipani, where, in Hindu belief, Krishna—regarded as the eighth incarnation of Vishnu—is said to have received his education.
References
Adapted from the English Wikipedia article on the Shipra River.