What is Ganga Dussehra?
Ganga Dussehra, also known as Gangavataran, celebrates the descent of Goddess Ganga from heaven to earth—a pivotal event in Hindu mythology. It occurs on the Dashami (10th day) of the Shukla Paksha (waxing moon) in the month of Jyeshtha, typically falling in May or June.
This sacred day marks the culmination of a ten‑day observance, during which devotees worship the river through ritualistic fasting, prayers, and holy baths.
Celebrations Along the Ghats
Uttar Pradesh—where the Ganges flows through holy cities like Varanasi, Prayagraj (Allahabad), and Garhmukteshwar—bustles with devotion during Ganga Dussehra.
Key Rituals and Traditions:
- Holy Dip (Snan): Devotees believe that bathing in the Ganga washes away sins. On Ganga Dussehra, this act holds powerful spiritual significance.
- Aarti and Deep Daan: Evening rituals include elaborate Ganga Aartis and floating diyas (oil lamps) on the water to honor the river goddess.
- Puja Ceremonies: Devotees offer prayers, incense, flowers, and perform Deep Daan, alongside recitations of mantras.
Ritual Guidelines & Spiritual Practices
Sources such as Navbharat Times offer insights into traditional observances and codes of conduct for this festival:
- Food & Behavior: Consuming sattvic food is advised; avoid meat, alcohol, onions, and garlic. Speak kindly and treat elders and the less fortunate with respect.
- Bathing Etiquette: Before entering the river, one should seek forgiveness, especially important for women to tie their hair and avoid bathing nude—doing so is considered inauspicious.
- Recommended Practices: Taking 5 or 7 dips, offering water in pots, sacred drinks (sharbat), seasonal fruits, and white clothes are believed to attract prosperity and spiritual merit.
Recent Highlights & Eco‑Spiritual Blend
In 2025, Varanasi marked Ganga Dussehra in tandem with World Environment Day, blending spirituality with environmental consciousness:
- A skating rally featuring 150 young participants carried eco‑friendly slogans and collected plastic, raising awareness of cleanliness and conservation.
- A spectacular Ganga Aarti was held at Dashashwamedh Ghat, with countless lamps illuminating the riverbank in a visually and spiritually uplifting display.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| When | 10th day of Shukla Paksha in Jyeshtha (May/June) – marks the descent of Ganga |
| Where (UP) | Prime cities: Varanasi, Prayagraj, Garhmukteshwar |
| Key Rituals | Holy dips, pujas, Ganga Aarti, floating lamps, chanting |
| Spiritual Etiquette | Sattvic diet, respectful behavior, modest bathing, specific rituals |
| Recent Additions | Environmental awareness events integrated into festival (e.g., eco‑rallies) |