Ganga Dussehra Festival: Why It’s Celebrated Every Year

Ganga Dussehra Festival: Celebrating the Sacred Descent of the Ganges

What is Ganga Dussehra?

Ganga Dussehra, also known as Gangavataran, is a revered Hindu festival commemorating the descent of the sacred river Ganga from the heavens to Earth. Celebrated on the Dashami Tithi (10th day) of the Shukla Paksha in the Hindu month of Jyeshtha (May–June), this festival holds immense spiritual significance. In 2025, Ganga Dussehra falls on Thursday, June 5.

Why is Ganga Dussehra Celebrated?

The festival honors the divine event when Goddess Ganga descended to Earth to purify the souls of King Bhagiratha’s ancestors. According to Hindu mythology, King Bhagiratha performed intense penance to bring Ganga down from the heavens to cleanse the ashes of his forefathers. To prevent the river’s powerful descent from destroying the Earth, Lord Shiva caught her in his matted locks and gently released her flow. This act symbolizes the purification of sins and the attainment of salvation.

Significance of the Number Ten

The term “Dussehra” is derived from “Dasha” (ten) and “Hara” (to destroy), symbolizing the cleansing of ten sins. Bathing in the Ganga on this day is believed to purify individuals of ten types of sins, leading to spiritual upliftment and liberation.

Rituals and Observances

1. Holy Dip (Ganga Snan): Devotees take a sacred dip in the Ganga River, especially at prominent ghats in cities like Haridwar, Varanasi, Prayagraj, Rishikesh, and Patna. Those unable to visit the river can bathe using Gangajal at home.

2. Pitra Tarpan: Offerings are made to ancestors to seek their blessings and attain peace for their souls.

3. Charity (Dan-Punya): Donating ten types of items, such as grains, clothes, and fruits, is considered highly meritorious. Avoid donating iron or plastic items.

4. Ganga Aarti: Special aarti ceremonies are conducted at various ghats, with devotees lighting lamps and chanting hymns in praise of the river goddess.

5. Mantra Chanting: Reciting mantras like “Om Namah Shivaya” and “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya” enhances spiritual benefits.

Celebrations Across India

Ganga Dussehra is celebrated with great fervor in several Indian states, including Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, and Jharkhand. Major cities like Haridwar, Varanasi, Prayagraj, Rishikesh, and Patna witness large gatherings of devotees participating in rituals and festivities.

Do’s and Don’ts

Do’s:

• Take a Holy Dip: If possible, bathe in the Ganga during the auspicious time.
• Offer Prayers: Perform rituals and offer prayers to Goddess Ganga.
• Charity: Donate essential items to the needy.
• Maintain Purity: Consume sattvic (pure) food and maintain cleanliness.

Don’ts:

• Avoid Non-Vegetarian Food and Alcohol: Refrain from consuming meat, alcohol, and other tamasic foods.
• Do Not Disrespect Elders: Treat elders and the needy with respect.
• Avoid Polluting the River: Do not throw waste or harmful substances into the river.

Environmental Significance

Ganga Dussehra also serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving the sanctity of the Ganga River. Devotees are encouraged to participate in cleanliness drives and avoid activities that pollute the river, ensuring its purity for future generations.

Conclusion

Ganga Dussehra is not just a festival but a spiritual journey towards purification and enlightenment. By participating in the rituals and adhering to the traditions, devotees seek the blessings of Goddess Ganga for a life filled with peace, prosperity, and spiritual growth.