Ganga Dussehra is a festival
that celebrates the descent of the sacred River Ganga to Earth. It falls on the
Dashami Tithi of Shukla Paksha in the Jyeshtha month, which means this
year, it will be observed on May 25, 2026.
Significance:
- According to Hindu mythology, King
Bhagirath performed intense penance to bring the Ganga to Earth to
liberate his ancestors' souls. Lord Shiva caught the river in his locks to
control its force before it flowed down.
- Bathing in the Ganga on this day is
believed to wash away sins and bring spiritual purification.
- The festival is widely celebrated in
places like Haridwar, Varanasi, Prayagraj, and Patna, where grand aartis
and deep daan (offering of floating lamps) take place.
Rituals:
- Holy Dip (Snan):
Devotees take a dip in the Ganga to cleanse themselves spiritually.
- Charity (Daan):
Donating items like food, clothes, and essentials is considered highly
auspicious.
- Worship: Special prayers and offerings are made to Maa Ganga, along with chanting and meditation.