Ganga Dussehra is a Hindu festival that celebrates the descent of the holy river Ganga (Ganges) from the heavens to Earth. It is observed on the Dashami (10th day) of the bright half (Shukla Paksha) of the Jyeshtha month (May–June). The festival honors Mother Ganga for her purifying powers and blessings.
🕉️ Spiritual Significance
Ganga Dussehra marks the day when Ganga descended to Earth to purify the souls and wash away sins. Bathing in the Ganga on this day is believed to absolve devotees of their sins and grant spiritual liberation (moksha). The river is worshipped as a goddess and a symbol of purity, life, and renewal.
🙏 Ganga Dussehra Puja Rituals
- Holy Bath (Snan):
- Devotees take a sacred dip in the Ganges or any holy river early morning to cleanse their body and soul.
- Offering Water to Ganga (Jal Arghya):
- People offer water to the rising sun while facing the river, symbolizing respect to the Sun and the Ganga.
- Water, flowers, diyas (lamps), and incense sticks are offered to the river.
- Chanting and Prayers:
- Devotees chant Ganga Stotra, Ganga Ashtakshara Mantra (Om Gange Namah), and other hymns praising Goddess Ganga.
- Special pujas are performed at riverbanks and temples dedicated to Ganga.
- Distribution of Prasad and Charity:
- Food, clothes, and other essentials are distributed among the poor as an act of charity.
- Cultural Celebrations:
- Devotional songs and bhajans are sung in praise of the Ganga.
- In some places, fairs and processions take place near riverbanks.
🌼 Message of Ganga Dussehra
Ganga Dussehra reminds us of the purity and sanctity of water, the importance of respecting nature, and the power of devotion to cleanse the soul. It encourages living a life of purity, humility, and spiritual growth.
